Why can’t we just do it for personal pleasure? Why can’t we just do something because it feels good, regardless of the result, or if people will applaud us for it?
Why can’t we just move along the journey that is life without thinking about status?
Why does so much of what we do depend on what others’ think of us?
I have several friends who love to boast about what they do, the car they bought (or really want), whom they hooked up with, or how rich they’re going to be.
Hearing this annoys me. Perhaps annoyed isn’t the right word.
To be honest, it just makes me sad.
There was once a time when I was driven by external expectations. I used to really care about what everyone thought of me. I needed everyone’s approval. But when I realized this was what was causing me to behave a certain way, I just let go.
Why? Because this led me to do things that I really didn’t enjoy doing. I was being driven by prestige. I was being driven by you. And it felt so unnatural.
When I realized this I felt a pure sense of joy. I still do.
I don’t think people should give credence to what most people will think of them.
I don’t mean you shouldn’t care for others. Or that no one’s opinion matters.
What I’m talking about is identity. I’m talking about family. I’m talking about community.
To find what and who will bring you happiness, you first have to find yourself.
And the only way you can find yourself is to be you. Live your life.
You’ll know when you’ve found them. Love is like that.
You’ll know because it’ll keep getting better. You’ll want it to go on forever.
You’ll realize the journey is the reward.