Our world hears
too much analyst and too little artist.
Robert K. Greenleaf wrote this in his article Servant Leadership. So many people are apt to complain, analyze, and criticize. I have these tendencies as well, but I've begun to realize that cynicism accomplishes...nothing, really. Political tensions, ethics debates, and injustices on all sides certainly give grounds for skepticism and pessimism. However, I issue you a challenge to creatively view the world positively.
A very wise, witty, and philosophical friend of mine - during an amusing rant about joy - once made a great comment about peeling oranges.
He decided that we should be fully able to be astronomically joyful and thankful 24/7. Not just when we get a good gift, or when somebody makes us laugh or smile...nope. All the time.
"It's like peeling an orange," he said. He continued with something like: "When you hold it in your hand, think of how it got to you. Be thankful for the rains that made it grow. When you peel it, be thankful for the workers who picked it. With every bite, be thankful for the complex naural, supernatural, and human network that has given you that orange."
Enjoy the wonder and majesty and hugeness of the universe. Enjoy the happy little smiling feeling you get (really, don't deny it) when you drink a cup of tea. Cynicism knocks the joy right out of life. So be creative. Think of ways to change situations rather than analyze the heck out of them.
So take a sip of tea and stop ranting. It's a little bit like peeling an orange.
Great first entry, I loved the analogy! However, I challenge you to this thought: when the world is viewed negatively, and something positive happens, it can create a whole renewed appreciation of life, love, and beauty. Perhaps negativity isn't incredibly bad in the long run, as long as it is followed by a smile and a happily ever after!
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