Eternity

Even if you know who you are, where you are now, and where you’re heading, there remains an essential question: "Why?". When we seek the meaning of others' actions or external events, it may not always relate directly to Temporistics. However, applying the concept of meaning to oneself and one’s own life connects us with the Eternity.

While eternity is often associated with an impersonal and detached perspective, the question of “Why am I here?” cannot be answered objectively, just as there is no single objective answer to “Who am I?” or other temporal questions. Approaching one’s sense of purpose can vary: for others, it’s an exciting journey into the unknown; and for some, the question of meaning might not be crucial at all.

The types of relationships with Eternity are categorized with terms drawn from science and philosophy: Guru, Philosopher, Philistine and Disciple.

The Guru (I. Eternity in the Target Aspect, Goal)

For the Guru, Eternity is a domain of self-actualization. They have the ability to impart meaning to both their own life and the world around them. Imparting meaning is distinct from searching for it. Although the Guru might not choose what to do, they are confident in their right to choose why.

The 'Goal' view of eternity involves a profound understanding of timeless principles. The Guru can view situations and themselves with detachment, almost as an outsider. For instance, when describing their travel experience, a Guru might present them as a collection of facts, excluding personal involvement, much like quoting from a book or almanac.

The Guru is constantly seeking meaning, morality, identifying patterns, and cannot stop even in the absence of complete information. They are somewhat emotionally dependent on the sense of involvement that arises when something gains meaning.

The Philosopher (II. Eternity in the Creative Aspect, Tool)

The second Eternity is nearly as strong as the first. Individuals with a creative eternity are marked by strong analytical skills, an ability to perceive connections between events, and a detached perspective. Unlike the first Eternity, which often creates or synthesizes meaning when it is not immediately apparent, the second does not find this necessary.

For Philosophers, meaning is simply a tool for addressing both everyday and profound tasks. They find it easier to engage with and adapt to various worldview concepts because the question of "Why do I live?" is less pressing for them. What matters most to a Philosopher is a sense of general meaning of life, their work, activities, ideally witout being constrained by specific details. This provides them a sense of freedom and strength.

The Philistine (III. Eternity in the Vulnerable Aspect, Criterion)

For those with a vulnerable Eternity, the questions of meaning are the most critical. Meaningfulness is an important criterion for their quality of life; however, this pursuit differs significantly between a Philistine and a Guru. While the Guru perceives meaning as a positive, motivating force, the Philistine sees it as restrictive, demanding them to "avoid trivialities," and directive.

The term "Philistine" is used for the Third Eternity due to their flawed strategy to escape the weight of their own critical standards. Answers to existential questions are rarely straightforward. Persistent doubts about life's meaning can plunge individuals with a vulnerable Eternity into a state of perpetual longing, often leading them to hide behind the facade of a Philistine.

By choosing avoidance, the Philistine distances themselves from questions of 'why', refrains from reflecting on their life from an external perspective, and becomes fully absorbed in mundane routines. They engage in a flurry of activities, attempting to silence the feelings of existential futility. However, since the Eternity remains part of their area of criteria, such approach only worsens their condition. When a Philistine succeeds in isolating themselves from the broader meaning of life, they begin to be tormented by the meaninglessness of smaller aspects  —they criticize themselves for a wasted day, an unproductive evening, or a pointless conversation.

A Philistine needs a particular kind of courage to view themselves objectively. However, within the framework of Temporistics, the Philistine is often closer to understanding their true purpose and calling than other types. They are quicker and more sensitive to recognizing when they have strayed from the right path.

The Disciple (IV. Eterntiy in the Blind Aspect, Resource)

For the Disciple questions of meaning might be intriguing, but they rank at the bottom in their hierarchy of temporal values. Essentially, they forgo the pursuit of meaning to allocate time and energy to other, more practical, "real-life" tasks. The Disciple can be easily influenced by others' ideologies and are unlikely to entertain alternative views only if they don't experience deep disillusionment.

In contrast to other types, the Disciple usually believes that the meaning of everything is objective and predetermined. If someone claims that "life has no meaning", it is more likely the dissapointed Philistine or a lazy Philosopher, but not a Disciple.

The key aspect of the Disciple’s relationship with Eternity is their view that discovering the answer to the question of "why" is not their personal responsibility. They are more than willing to leave this responsibility to others, whether it concerns their overall life or specific tasks.