Should our lives be laid out in its entirety, from beginning to end, we would see clearly what matters. A clarity that guides and aligns the life we want to author. When we have clarity of vision, the daily trivialities, the steps forward and back, and fleeting desires fades as minor details in the grand story.
On the eve of my 40th, I reflect and give thanks for the blessings of my life. The year is arbitrary, but it serves nonetheless as a milestone. Looking back at the boy I was, at 10, 20, or 30, it would be difficult to envision the man I am today. I can only assume that my 50 or 60 year old self would reflect the same way, assuming the obvious.
5 years ago, I gleaned the wisdom that life is a story, for which we are the authors. Each of us can write the manuscripts to craft the life we want to lead. While the final edition may not reflect the first draft precisely, it can be pretty close should we be intentional about it.
When we don’t write intentionally, life becomes a journal. A recording of the things that pass, by routine or chance, as haphazard as the wind. Things happen, and life occurs.
There are many reasons we avoid writing. Effort, uncertainty, and the potential for disappointment. It is easier to lead lives in a safe shelter wrapped in comfort. There is nothing wrong with such a life, but it usually stems from a state of inertia rather than a deliberate choice.
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.
And to my own self, at this likely midpoint of life, reflecting on life in its possible entireties, I strive to see clearly what matters.
Kindness is the north star. In the quiet depths of the heart and soul I have searched. There is much pain and suffering in the self and humanity, but it is my certain truth that kindness is the way. Kindness is the best of humanity. I hope my life can be guided by kindness in all I do.
Boldness is the selfish desire. For that reason I have always hesitated to live boldly. An elder friend shared his philosophy that reconciled this discrepancy: “I take as much as I can from life, but I give twice as much back.” Life has no limits in its beauty and goodness, and there is no shame in living well. It is a false humility to live below life’s potentials.
I shall drink deep from the well, do good and be kind. I shall ride horses, love deeply, give greatly, and enjoy life’s full bounties.
Here half the story has finished and now I write the next half. I hope I may author a great life.