Will You Take The “L”???
(Existentially Speaking, Of Course)
Do you consider yourself a loser? Or, maybe a more apropos question is what is your definition of a loser? Who qualifies to have this moniker assigned to them? And since we’re stamping and labeling, who gives any of us the all-knowing, all-seeing authority to make these designations? Is your self-worth reliant on your ability to have the most of everything?? These questions may be some things to ponder.
Being on your “Purpose” is the catch word of the day. It has become the gold standard for measuring success. Peruse any social media site and take a shot (not a basketball shot, though that may be a healthier option) every time you hear a supposedly well meaning "life coach,” or anyone else say the phrase “stay, or be on your purpose.” I can just about guarantee that you will be inebriated within an hour. We are no longer human beings; we are humans doing. Always in a state of flux, always producing, always striving for something, anything. But- you must be doing something, becoming richer, becoming more, more, and more.
When, or will we ever be able to just ‘BE?’
As I watched a YouTube content creator by the name of Einzelganger’s video, I was stirred to ask myself these questions. I actually think about this subject quite often. It is inevitable that no matter where or which way you turn in today's world someone is telling you to be on your grind, stay in and on your purpose…achieve, achieve, achieve. We are admonished that if we are not in a constant state of doing just that, we are the dreaded “loser.”
I am very aware of the need to work to live and survive, maybe even thrive, but it seems that we can never have enough financial wealth. See all the major business tycoons and their cronies. We can never have too much status. We certainly should never consider being satisfied. Contentment breeds, sloth, laziness, and shows a mindset of mediocrity. The scriptures tell us to ‘have plenty to do in the work of the Lord- not man.
I was impressed by this quote from the previously mentioned YouTube content creator. “We don’t need master's as we are constantly whipping ourselves, at most we hand the whips to these motivational gurus and let them whip some “grinding” and “hustling” in us.” No lies detected there. Not being in the “hustle culture” and achieving at a substantially high level is considered to be one of the most unfulfilling states to be in.
We admire the braggarts, the most seen, the supposedly most accomplished people, and in turn look down upon those who don’t view this lifestyle as one that they would subscribe to. Our self-worth should not be predicated on someone else’s idea of success. We shouldn’t base our determinations on a formula that society tells us is the “key to happiness.” The major issue that lies there is the lack of individuality. What makes you smile, gives you joy, or sets your heart ablaze may not be the same thing that works for someone else. If a cozy cottage is more preferable to you than a magnificent
mansion, then strive for the cottage. If you are perfectly content not driving an expensive luxury car, then buy what suits you. And… if you do not fancy the notion to work until your ninety-five, or you don’t possess the stamina to constantly burn the midnight oil; then why should you?
To each his own, has long been my philosophy. While I am not opposed to those who believe that these concepts and ideas work well for them, I don’t live with the expectation that they are for everyone. If at all possible don’t get caught up in the machinations, shamed, or duped by people who obviously don't have your sensibilities. Also, don't be convinced to be forever endeavoring towards the get more, be more, and the I need to have more mentality.
You may want to ask yourself…Will we ever be able to just ‘BE?’
Oh, and I’ll ask the question again, Will You Take the “L???”
