Despite human’s living on this earth for many millennia. I’m baffled how, regardless of the many achievements we’ve made, there is no definite guide to live. Where is my “Life And How To Live It" book? It’s a silly thought. Understood is that fact, the human experience is not one size fits all. It changes with upbringing, circumstance and ultimately perception. What if I told you there is such a book?
The phrase stuck with when I heard “Life and how to live it”. It’s a song by undoubtedly one of the best bands of all-time, R.E.M. Apart from the beauty of R.E.M’s lyrics, the beauty of the story behind this song is inspiring!
The lyrics talk about a man named Brivs Mekis. Quoted to be a mentally disturbed (some sources say a schizophrenic) individual from R.E.M’s hometown in Athens, Ga. He had two homes next to each other, which were connected through a hole he made in his wall.
Burn bright through the night, two pockets lead the way
Two doors to go between the wall was raised today
Two doors, two names to call your others and your own Keep these books well stocked away and take your happy home
–R.E.M
As the lyrics go, Brivs self-published a book titled “Life: How to Live.”. He also held all the copies oh his own book. R.E.M’s Micheal Stipe would often divulge these facts during his pre-performance banter at shows.
The unconventionality and the humility of this whole matter often catches me in awe.
There must be a reason why Brivs chose to stock his bookshelf instead of giving it to others. It’s what you make it to be. You owe no one to measure up to any pre-set benchmarks.
I wish you a good day, and hope you find what ever you may seek.