While some might fantasize about never having to work again, without something to do and a purpose in life, of what value are we?
Precisely, sir.
Without purpose - and that starts with carving out your own survival skills - there is no point.
Value comes from adding something real in your own world, not some idealistic concept of what others deem to be of value/purpose, in your world.
(Social engineers, socialist, and 'Utopians' etc., are mentally ill totally missing the point of what the essence of life actually is about.
They're control freaks. They just don't understand the human condition).
Recently retired, I am having a lot of time to contemplate questions just like this ...
Having recently 'come out of retirement', I've had many years - and a lot of time - to contemplate these kinds of questions, also!
Interestingly, it was the answer to this very question of 'value and point of life', that eventually nudged me to get off my lazy arse, and do something again.
I must say, it's made me feel 10 years younger. That says a lot in my book..
Very good @lucylin ...
... I respect that. For me and my beloved lifemate, we are very early into this "chapter of our lives," so I have already given considerable thought myself as to what's next. While I may work again, of one thing I am certain. Only "at the point of a bayonet" will I ever again work somewhere that is unhealthy, e.g. life sappingly stress inducing ... I simply don't have to ...
That said, we are clear we are blessed still with good health and can make contributions, as seems best to us. The day will inevitably come, no matter how well intentioned we may yet be, we simply will no longer be able to ...