If I was given the choice, I would probably choose to live an average life. Dieing young but being remembered by the world for a thousand years wouldn't make you any happier, then if you lived a long average life. Actually I think people would really rather have both. Part of what humans want is a long mortal life, and a long immortal life/memory, but I think I would be happier if I lived a long average life. Really that's what's really important, how you feel about your own life. I would probably be happier with a long average life so that's what I'll choose.

childhood memories

My favorite book from when i was a kid is probably Dr. Seuss' book Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are ? I got the book from my grandparents while I was about 7 or 8, and in the hospital after having my appendix taken out. Even then I thought the book had a clear message. Pretty much the book is saying that no matter how bad you think you have it, there is someone in the world who is worse off then you are. Even though it is hard to remember that at times, the message is completely true. I would really like to live by the philosophy that you're always better off then someone else, but its hard to do that when you're stuck in a rut. Its worth a try though.

Eastern Philosophy

Probably the most confusing accpect of Eastern philosophy is the circular motion of life. Most westeners veiw life in a linear fashion where you are born and then you die. However, the Eastern philosophy is that lfe is a constent flow of life, death, and reincarnation. Most of the Eastern philosophies say that your spirit is transfered from lifeform to lifeform until you find nirvana, or inlghtenment. At this point your spirit will no longer be reincarnated, and you will truly die.