The other day, one of my young students asked me, “Does my The other day, one of my young students asked me, “Does my appearance really matter?” The answer is irrefutable — yes, of course! As we all know, we live in an extremely informal age. People don’t seem to enjoy “natty” attire or a sophisticated look. Why you may ask? I think, ultimately, it has to do with a lessening or a weakening of people’s appreciation for the exterior world — we don’t pay attention — we are bored and really don’t care! (1) We are fooling ourselves, unfortunately. The problem is one of fatigue.
It requires more effort to present well than not. So, in the accelerated It requires more effort to present well than not. So, in the accelerated Age of the Internet, why bother — who has the time to put on a form-fitting blouse or a jacket with the appropriate cravat? Few, it would seem. This is great fun when you are 16 but the long-term consequences are not pretty. You run the risk of looking bland, even dowdy, to yourself as well as your community, your employer, your family, etc. — no style and no ambition to be successful, whatever that means to you. At least, this is how you appear to others. In truth, the society demands a distinctive personal brand and the commitment to a lifetime mission or career — the opposite is that you are just a part of the masses, (2) a non-visible piece of the herd.
Now, you would think that if you spend less time on your garments, you would have more time for reading and introspection, right? (3) The opposite is true, sadly: we are becoming more short-sighted in our knowledge of history and of the world — and less thoughtful, as well. Is this a good way to mature — most certainly not. We must “buck the trend” and develop our personal brand. As we grow physically, those who are reflective soon realize that my life depends on me — given that I am a certain age, have a unique cultural profile, a special personality, etc. — I am 100% responsible for what happens in my life. The caveat being that life is ephemeral and things, both good and bad, occur spontaneously.
So, how do I gain some sense of direction when I begin this life journey? I think it behooves each of us to consciously reflect on who I am and what I want out of my piece of life. Now, to be fair, this is only at this moment. With more experience and more sagacity, my plans may change over time, but this is also all right. I am a collection of memories and experiences. How I analyze a present situation will change with increased awareness of the world around me. One route to take in the development of you is to find a mentor or an historical figure that you admire. What were their traits that were significant. If you take Winston Churchill, (4) for example, he was a self-created polymath. He knew how to dress, how to act and how to “drive himself forward.” He also had great periods of fear, frustration and failure. He, ultimately, believed in his mission in life — whatever that meant to him. He was a hero, as defined by Osho. (5) To paraphrase: there are no heroes nor any cowards, there is only action. So develop some style, learn to dress appropriately, assiduously try to improve and find your chemin in life. It is there in front of each of us — appearance does matter. The great thinker and philosopher, Krismamurti (6) leaves us with a thought: Every human being, when there is a fundamental change in himself, affects the consciousness of the world – because you are the world and the world is you.
A closing thought: It is important, I feel, that we realize that each and every human being is unique and given a task to fulfill in his or her life. I refuse to accept that I am just a biological accident and there is no purpose to wakefulness — to knowledge of my existence. That said, most individuals leave the door to the self closed or, at best, slightly ajar. Don’t be one of those. Embrace life, whatever that means to you. Develop into the person you will be proud of. Learn to only judge yourself and do not rely, unless you want to, on the observations of others. And remember: it is a wonderful life.
To sum up: This week we spoke about your appearance in the world. Let your excellence inside also emanate on the outside.
To be noted: from Benjamin Franklin (7) — Lost time is never found again.
Just for fun: Mischa Maisky plays Bach Cello Suite No.1 in G (full)
For reflection: Yanni – “Reflections of Passion” Live at Royal Albert Hall… 1080p Digitally Remastered & Restored
This week, on your dynamic walk, please ponder on how to present yourself in the world — your own personal style.
Every day look for something magical and beautiful.
Don’t be a wage slave – critical thinking is great!
Quote: Take up the mantle and fully live your life.
Footnotes:
1) It’s never been easy being a teenager. But is this now a generation in crisis?
2) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass_society
3) Technology is making us less informed and less thoughtful
4) Winston Churchill
5) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajneesh
6) A mind that is free | J. Krishnamurti
7) Benjamin Franklin