The other day, I had quite a shocking experience. I entered the bathroom to “jump in the shower” and was startled to realize that I was not alone: an old man was also with me. I say this, of course, ”tongue in cheek.” Still, I think it is the same for most people; life unfolds like the weaving of a tapestry or the creation of a painting. It is there to be remarked on, its various points remembered (pleasantly or not), but it is lived day by day, piece by piece. Few experience a traumatic experience that changes us forever.
Now this is certainly not true for those unfortunate souls who have to confront terminal diseases, violence, or war. However, this is a reality that increasingly few first-world citizens encounter. Most live out their lives and disappear, hopefully, remembered by family and friends. Countless young people want more than this, though. I was asked by a young student last semester, “How do I make time countable and meaningful?” Time is the most precious gift that we are given at birth. We are perhaps as old as twenty when we consciously become aware of its value, this gives us our individual existential angst. Then, freedom is bestowed. Many blunder here because of external influences (parents or loved ones) that try to offer guidance, often in the wrong direction.
Last year, I caught a persistent flu that would not go away. I randomly chose a clinic to see a doctor and get some medicine. It was late in the evening and the dispensary was empty and almost closed. The physician graciously took me into his office. He was a pensive man and plied me with questions about my profession and country of origin. He stated that he had two young daughters. I couldn’t contain my ebullience. “Gosh,” I remarked, “you must really love being a doctor!” He looked at me with stunned disgust and an air of disbelief that someone could be so naïve. “I hate being a doctor. I should have been a lawyer like my wife.” I was speechless and suddenly felt well and declined his offer of medication: wouldn’t you?
A simple question comes to mind: “How could you spend seven or more years learning something that you hate?” The answer is you can’t unless you are spineless and are controlled by exterior influences. The key to time is to savor its value and to spend it well. Increasingly educators discuss the concept of passion. (1) Forget being conservative and safe. This world no longer exists. The lifetime position is a thing relegated to economic history. You are on your own to create your own reality, your own world: exciting, though terrifying!
What is the process that removes you from an existence of frustration and fear to a position of exhilaration and personal fulfillment? It is, fortunately or unfortunately, you. It is the self that must find the correct personal path. The method of trial and error is lauded by many. (2) Your most important discovery is finding your “inner courage,” the ability to face difficulty and overcome it. Dismiss your fears of public opprobrium and death. These are but meaningless concepts that we are inculcated with from birth and tend to control virtually all attempts at experimentation and change: be an original.
The author William Faulkner (1897-1962) leaves us with a thought: At one time I thought the most important thing was talent. I think now that — the young man or the young woman must possess or teach himself, train himself, in infinite patience, which is to try and to try and to try until it comes right. He must train himself in ruthless intolerance. That is, to throw away anything that is false no matter how much he might love that page or that paragraph. The most important thing is insight, that is … curiosity to wonder, to mull, and to muse why it is that man does what he does. And if you have that, then I don’t think the talent makes much difference, whether you’ve got that or not. (Parts of this essay were first published in 2015)
A closing thought: The key to any journey is simply the first step. This movement produces the realization that the self is going somewhere. You are not quite sure where, but you recognize that your lifetime journey has begun. Most of us feel a sense of pride at this moment, for we have been brave enough to embark on such a monumental odyssey.
To sum up: This week we spoke about learning about yourself.
A small joke: An elderly and dominant chief executive officer (CEO) standing in front of the paper shredder asked a respectful and deferential assistant for help. The company owner said, “This is a very sensitive and important document. Can you make this devise work?” “Absolutely!” replied the young man. He turned the machine on and pressed the button. The report went inside. “Excellent, excellent, said the CEO, “I just need one copy.”
For reflection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2C90l7YlT8&t=4039s
This week, on your thoughtful walk, please reflect on what your personal adventure 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 your life in a state of wonder and imagination.ry
Footnotes:
1) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-M8Hl5MUr8w
2) Life’s Roller-Coaster Truth: richardstep.com