Uncertainty

I'm reading a book that says we can only achieve true success and a true rhythm in our lives by confronting our weaknesses. Should we focus only on our strengths we will not overcome adversity and hence will add no further dimensions to our person. Some of the most interesting people I know have never settled, but instead continue searching until they find contentment in that particular area of their lives. By this time though they have discovered dozens of other ways in which they can continue to grow. Thus by this simple principle of trying new things; picking up the guitar that has forever frustrated our efforts, running seriously again after years of putting it off, calling up old friends and always seeking out new relationships our lives stay vigorous, and our personalities full of life and give life as well! I like best Ralph Waldo Emerson's advice for success:

"To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children; to earn the approbation of honest citizens and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give of one's self; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived - this is to have succeeded."

However, this quote on its own leaves unanswered the question of how to find the energy for all these achievements. We of course cannot draw from an empty well, and I used to think that we had to draw on one another; this is true, but is our Lord and Savior who supplies the energy to those in our lives, and hence we can also draw from Him directly, through prayer, contemplation, and love. More profound still, we cannot realize the true love that He has for us until we believe that we are capable of being loved by Him. We must first understand ourselves and love ourselves, and only then can we truly and deeply love God and one another.

We will never find perfect success in this life, but for this imperfect existence I think we can measure our success by how closely Emerson's quote fits our lives. Some of us may be stronger in realizing certain parts than others, but this matters little as long as we hear the silent voice within us, and at the end of the day can sit alone in silence, with a clear mind and an open heart. This proves an achievable goal, and if realized by us all, would lead to a world the likes of which we have only experienced in the deepest and wildest of our dreams.

May peace and love reign in all of our hearts. God bless you, and peace be with you.