The essence of existence
Frankl defined human existence as being-responsible (Verantwortlichsein). The German word Verantwortung contains Antwort - answer. Responsibility is the ability to answer the questions life puts to us.
The categorical imperative of logotherapy
Frankl formulated the maxim: “Live as if you were living already for the second time and as if you had acted the first time as wrongly as you are about to act now!” It is meant to make us aware of the uniqueness of every moment and the weight of decisions.
Responsible to whom?
Frankl left it to the patient to decide to whom or to what they feel responsible - to society, humanity, conscience or God. The logotherapist does not impose an answer but helps the person become aware of their responsibility.
Transience
The transience of life does not deprive it of meaning but heightens responsibility. What has been realised is “safely stored in the past” - nothing and no one can take it away.
Sources
V. E. Frankl, The Doctor and the Soul; Man's Search for Meaning.