The Meaning Of Life!? Not Exactly.

To ponder exactly what it is.... that reality is, or perhaps for a better phrase, 'the meaning of life'; one must first establish a true goal behind their curiosity on the matter. Is one seeking happiness? Or is the invisible drive that can only be described as the pursuit of knowledge the culprit. Only by knowing the motivations, and the certainty behind the motivations; can we all be certain that the 'pondering' is even worth doing.
An example of motivations that could only be defined as 'wrong', could be the motivation to gain power or advantage over another through ones own pursuit towards the meaning of life. This in itself would not be an actual desire to solve 'the meaning of life'. A good example of this could be some of the Catholic Church's practices. While in fact, it may not intend on doing any harm. The philosophies and beliefs take advantage of people's ignorance and need for an 'opium', much like the Philosopher Dan Miranda described in his example.
Now this does not mean that one can not practice faith, through finding out the purpose of ones existence. It simply means that motivations, and reasons behind the pursuit of a reality, are factors that should not be ignored or taken lightly. A lot of blood has been shed due to this ignorance of motivations behind greater meanings.
So what should one think, how should one treat the 'bigger picture'? What role should it play in our lives? How can we prevent ourselves from becoming obsessed or over indulged in the SEARCH, rather than the PRACTICE of a meaningful existence. For it is the practice that matters.
I myself do not know, nor do I feel as if any one answer is right for everybody. With that, my opinion, is worthless in a sense. But for sake of sharing what I myself have found, in the hope of assistance to another who may have asked the same questions. I will share what I can, through words, as limited a role as words play in this matter.

To go through the actual practice of a meaningful existence, one must first be free of anything that keeps them from pursuing one. A person must be happy, and must know they are happy without any doubt. How do you get to that point?
There are chains that bind us down and keep us from being 'free' everywhere. Buildings, People, Money, Culture, Society, School. I'm aware that the set of examples I've given don't really form a proper or complete list. But for a minute or two, think about taking a walk down a street while observing things from an outside point of view. Imagine having been untouched by everything around you. Imagine not being a product of your environment. Imagine that it is the first time that you have stepped into this environment.
This is where my words can only go so far....
To find a happiness, and meaning... one has to break away from the chains, break away from the pressures, while keeping peace with the very things they broke away from. The peace is important. Without it, one could become bitter, and become isolated.
The chains will be there, but they suddenly are made of plastic, the pressure is there, but light as a feather.
Taking strides towards your destination is the only thing left. And doing it with a smile on your face, a purpose in your step, and nothing to fear... is 'the meaning of life'.