A Gracious Self, Yearning To Shine Through in Time

On Receiving

Yearning for calm. I can't explain it. But complete withdrawal from societal expectations oftentimes grabs and thrusts me into solitude. I trudge along for months or even years at a time, knowing I need to withdraw, but reluctant to the urge. I crave. I resist. Until, I give in.

For in solitude I revamp my attitude; my tolerance; my goals; and my commitment to do good.

I see so much of the world's people belittling one another and perpetrating hateful acts against individuals for no legitimate reasons. My feelings are that these acts are growing immensely in intensity and frequency. This is true especially when the acts involve leveling insults, whether verbal or written, against those for their success in life, talents, and ability to sympathize and empathize with others.

As calamity escalates in the world, people are pitted against each other as adversaries, regardless of whether they are directly involved in a conflict. Lines are drawn, and positions are taken as posturing goads us to display our power.

Personal relationships are sometimes eroded. Friendships are dissolved and labeled as "irreparably damaged". Individuals no longer attempt to reconcile and establish common ground with which to exist.

My thoughts turn to social media and how individuals who regard themselves as "influencers" attempted to condition our minds. Often begrudging a fellow human being his or her accomplishments, as well as the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of their dream is pointless.

The manufacturing and retail industries are providing society less of a value in their products, charging more, and demanding we accept what they are lavishing upon us with no explanation.

When individuals stop supporting each other, society as a whole fails.

I believe in supporting others who goals may be different from mine and don't infringe upon or go against my morals and ethics. My one remembrance is that all humans are held together by that slender thread with only a few degrees of separation between us.

That's not enough to cry foul. Instead, we should bond together in unity and of like mind and purpose.

^{[Pure Fractal Art Project created by me in Canva...2]}

On Giving

A couple months ago, a young lady I met on the blockchain responded to one of my posts. In her comment, she inquired about a micro finance charity I'd mentioned a few years ago and desired the name of the organization, KIVA.

When I think of that organization primarily assisting impoverished women in third world countries, I think of the clutter and waste not only I participate in, but millions of others, as we generously discard, it sickens me. So, I decided to declutter my life and allow others who are less fortunate to enjoy the items that I no longer feel are necessary to life a minimalist lifestyle.

The saying "one person's trash is another person's treasure rings true. Life is subjective in certain aspects. The common norms of a society excepted, what's important to one person is off the radar of another. That doesn't mean the matter isn't important. The principle rules that if the item doesn't go against society's rules and laws, then the item may be supported if the effect doesn't hamper or hurt another person.

What we give, we shall receive tenfold. The abundance we won't be able to contain over time. That is my belief and my faith. So we should pour it out without regard whether it will be returned to us.

I'm reminded of the saying:

"Giving material goods is one form of generosity, but one can extend an attitude of generosity into all one's behavior. Being kind, attentive, and honest in dealing with others, offering praise where it is due, giving comfort and advice where they are needed, and simply sharing one's time with someone - all these are forms of generosity, and they do not require any particular level of material wealth."

Dalai Lama ³

^{[Pure Fractal Art Project created by me in Canva1]}

In Time

A common saying that "time waits on no one" is true. When we're young, we feel as though time is immaterial. It has no meaning. As we age and hopefully grow wiser, we see that time is a precious commodity. Along with good health, it's to be cherished.

The more time we spend being unhappy or dwelling on unpleasantness in our lives is a waste. The time and energy we spend is a misuse our time and efforts is time wasted not doing good or being a good steward in society.

So I no longer waste my mine yearning for calm. I've created it by concentrating on ways to find peace within myself while at the same time attempting to do good to others who may be seeking a calmness in their lives.

I think of the song below whose lyrics have impacted my way of thinking and inspired me to action for over forty years. During those times I listen to it, I seek a calm space, insert my earplugs, and allow the lyrics to filter through to my soul. They rejuvenate my spirit.

In the end, what one person thinks or feels about another or anyone else is irrelevant. If you yearn for peace and contentment in your life, then do what pleases you. If you can't get the support willingly from others, then make you own peace and do without those who wish you ill will.

I've often pondered the many questions about humans and humanity. I haven't discovered an answer yet. I may never, so I try to focus on what I do know and can find answers to.

All will be revealed in time when everything will be alright. The late Rev. Al Green, in his song below, says it best, so we'd better be prepared for the answer.