People say that what we are all seeking is a meaning for life. I don’t think that’s what we’re really seeking or thinking. I think what we’re seeking is an experience of being alive. That the life experiences that we have on the purely physical plane will have resonances within … our own innermost being and reality, so that we actually feel the rapture of being alive. That’s what it’s all finally about and that’s what these clues help us to find within ourselves. Myths are clues to the spiritual potentialities of the human life. We’re having experiences all the time which … render some sense of this, a little intuition of where your joy is: grab it. No one can tell you what it’s going to be. You’ve got to learn to recognize your own depths. — Interview with Bill Moyers, Joseph Campbell (1904-1987) Mythologist
May the Spirit of the Holidays fill you with the Commitment to move forward with your dreams.
Peace,
Jim
SPIRITED
Definition: (1) having or showing mettle, courage, vigor, animation, or energy; (2) the immaterial intelligent or sentient part of a person; (3) the motivating, activating, or essential principle influencing a person’s actions <the spirit of helpfulness>; (4) a positive inclination, impulse, or tendency; (5) the extraordinary feelings and qualities characterizing one’s inner attitude; (6) the disposition of firmness or assertiveness
Too Far: tempestuous
COMMITTED
Definition: devoted unreservedly <to an idea or a project>; engaged; pledged; bound
Synonyms: entrusted, confided, consigned, relegated
Quotes:
Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no one could have dreamed would have come their way. I learned a deep respect for one of Goethe’s couplets:
Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.
— William Hutchison Murray (1913-1996) Scottish Mountaineer and Writer
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it’s the only thing that ever has. — Margaret Mead (1901-1978) American Cultural Anthropologist
Comment: You cannot make a commitment for someone else even if you know, without a doubt, they are ready to take the first step. You might be able to provide inspiration, encouragement, or information. You can offer some help or preparation, but it is ultimately that person’s choice.
Mythological Figure: Juno, the supreme goddess of Roman mythology, wife of Jupiter, and goddess of marriage
