How Do You Know You Exist?

When asked this question in my Humanities 20-1 class, one word came to mind:
Existentialism.

• A philosophical attitude opposed to rationalism and empiricism, that stresses the individual's unique position as a self-determining agent responsible for the authenticity of his or her choices.

I think that the fact that I am able to make choices makes me human, and therefore proves my existence.


Another thought that came to mind was the fact that I can feel. Not only can I feel things physically, by touch, but I can also show emotion. I can have joy, but also sadness. I can be heartbroken, and extraordinarily happy. 


The biggest thing for me was that I have the capacity to love. I do not think that if I were a well-thought out story or dream that I would have that capacity. However, I do. It's an incredibly strong capacity, and without it, I think I would be lost. I love unconditionally and wholly, without restraint. If I were not human, if I did not exist, I would not have that ability. 


This question made me think a lot more than I expected. I questioned my existence, but only for a moment. I found solace in my religious beliefs, in the fact that I was told that I am here. I do exist. It's hard to explain exactly how I know this, and I could probably do it better in person.


Like Descartes said, "Cogito. Ergo. Sum."


"I think, therefore I am."