As a young man, in college, I chased girls with enthusiasm. If I fancied a girl, I worked hard to catch her eye; her interests became my interests. With single-minded determination, I would focus and concentrate. Thankfully the fun was in the chase; I was not very successful.
As a lawyer, I dedicated myself to making my mark in the world; I would work like a trojan to enhance my reputation. I would work 12-hour days and think nothing of it. I would listen to clients with patience; manage staff with decisive thoughtfulness. I was fully engaged in my work and derived enormous satisfaction and self-worth from the growth of the firm.
My wife and I began investing in venture capital and turn-around situations. I desired money and wealth. I would pour over reports and analyses. We would have long meetings with management groups, negotiate with creditors, nurture managers. It was fascinating work. We did well, principally because we put in the time, and we were able to focus our energies.
At different times in my life, I have pursued sex, sports, approval, and wealth with single-minded focus and passion. I went to great lengths. In these matters, I was disciplined, focused, an observer might even say, driven.
Do I bring the same discipline, focus, and drive to my spiritual life? You would think that my spiritual life and relationship with my Higher Power would be at least as important as sex, approval, or wealth. But all too easily, matters of the spirit take a back seat.
For example, I would start the day with a morning prayer then lose contact with my Higher Power. I would not turn to ask for help until the problems had fully matured and the situation was desperate. Judging by my day-to-day experience, spiritual growth was lower on the priority list than sex, fame, or money.
If I had worked half as hard on spiritual matters as I did on any one of sex, fame, and wealth, I would be a spiritual giant. The Dali Lama would be sharing a stage with me. Tony Robbins and Deepak Chopra would be seeking me out for advice.
Now that I am older and wiser, the priorities are better. Spiritual growth is becoming more critical.
The old Norwegian expression, “too soon old, and too late smart,” is a great truth in my life.
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More comments on this post than usual, thanks for the feedback.
Andy
Very good
Thanks
I will bet your catchy headline got a lot of people’s attention
Did mine
So true!!!!!!!!!
That one is your best yet!
Impactful.
Grateful for this message
Thanks Andy
Sounds much like me !
🙏😉
Thanks Andy 1
Hi Andy,
Thank you for sharing your self-examination. A display of that precious quality of Humility.
I guess the answer to your original question is: “We are not Saints…..”
Good essay Andy. Must say I appreciate the Dahli Lama but struggle withe the other 2. Still I think you are in good company