Most colorful, interesting people have numerous positive qualities. Normally, they are curious and love new ideas. They are eager to experiment and possess a modicum of bravery. That being said, how does the average person overcome the drudgery of life, the toil of a day-to-day existence? This is achieved through the essential realization that time is our only real treasure. Once you accept that time commands this powerful relationship in your life, you can acknowledge the art of living.
I use the term art because a well-lived life bestows such magnificence that it is truly awe-inspiring. Existence, however, must be nurtured to be fully developed. Life itself must be viewed as an adventure – the crusade of the self — a vigorous journey of self-discovery. The beginning of any newly minted day should begin with an endearing and powerful aphorism. “Thank you, God for another day of consciousness so that I may affect positive change in this magnificent world.” Once this is stated, a powerful aura cloaks you with a mantle of prescient thought. The next powerful tool in your arsenal is your acknowledgment of gratitude. Celebrate the fact that you are you and you are conscious.
Diminish the value of your external appearance: it is just a temple that protects your soul. Yes, it must be strong; yes it must have an element of attractiveness, but is not the essential you. Finally, focus on your presence in the world: your career or focus. If you don’t have one, find it. It is there for you, but only if you seek and make an effort. We are not meant to be enslaved. Every fiber in our being calls out for freedom. But this freedom only comes from within. You cannot be a wage slave and live a contented life. Personal growth embellishes this sense of liberty.
Travel is identified with self-perfection. The Grand Tour (1) of Europe, undertaken by young British aristocrats between the 17th and 19th centuries, was one attempt to become more worldly. Today, we can relatively easily participate in our own personal voyage. All of these types of thoughts lead to but one conclusion: take a chance of you. We were not created to be educated into consumerism and then die. Our mission is to fulfill our destiny, to paint our own life canvas. There is no excuse to be bland and uninteresting. So change your hairstyle, get fit, read some good books, and be thankful for your life. In short: put some color in your life!
Motivational speaker and writer Denis Waitley (b. 1933) leaves us with a thought: As long as we are persistent in our pursuit of our deepest destiny, we will continue to grow. We cannot choose the day or time when we will fully bloom. It happens in its own time. (Parts of this essay were first published in 2016)
A closing thought: It is truly remarkable to note how much of my life is up to my efforts. Yes, life is ephemeral, but the direction of the results is often within my control. If I at first fail at an endeavor, what is its secondary path to success? There is usually another way. Winston Churchill was in a political wilderness for 10 years before becoming Prime Minister and arguably saved Western civilization. (2)
To sum up: This week we spoke about becoming a more interesting personality — to yourself and others.
To be noted: — from Walt Disney: All dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.
Just for fun:Â Bryan Adams – Please Forgive Me (Official Music Video)
For reflection:Â
This week, on your thoughtful walk, please reflect on what your sense of color has meant to your life.
Every day look for something magical and beautiful.
Don’t be a wage slave – critical thinking is great!
Quote: Live a colorful life: why not?
Footnotes:
2) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winston_Churchill%27s_%22Wilderness%22_years,_1929%E2%80%931939