Table 3.

MCP-WTC sources of meaning

Source of meaning	Meaning content
History	Legacy given (past), living legacy (present), and legacy one will give (future). Acknowledgment of overarching values and themes present within family and work. Discussion of how these themes are interwoven. Examples include family and work culture and expectations, traditions, community, and religious or spiritual beliefs.
Responding	Choosing how one responds to circumstances beyond one’s control. Discussion of morality as the ultimate limitation as well as a source of meaning. Reframing past experiences of responding to encourage ownership of one’s choices. Examples include the choice one previously made to respond courageously, the attitude one brings to their current circumstances.
Constructing	Constructing meaning, identity, direction, growth, connection, purpose, and fulfillment by taking responsibility and action in one’s own life. Discussion of the act of creating or constructing a meaningful life through engagement in creative endeavors. The relationship between responsibility, courage, and commitment are discussed, and the room is provided to address neurotic, existential, and survivor guilt. Examples include commitment to service, definitions of courage, and addressing areas of unfinished business.
Experiencing	Experiencing meaning through connection with life. Attention is given to meaning that can be found in both the extraordinary and mundane moments of one’s life. Examples include experiences of love, beauty, and humor as ways to feel more connected to something greater than oneself.