How paradoxical truth IS…
Humankind is being sold a story of the apparent good life, and the majority of persons unwittingly buy it without examining it for value. I, for one, buy it no more. On the surface, the story seems bright, shiny, and sensible; a story that deserves to be placed on a high shelf within our lives. At some point, however, many of us learn that the degree of truth contained within the story is equivalent to the facts found in the rag magazines at the grocery store checkout line. The story promises, but it doesn’t deliver.
There are various versions of the story related to name, fame, and achievement; but the theme always remains the same: “If you, little Johnny or Mary, work hard enough, sacrifice enough, and keep your nose to the grindstone long enough, you can make something of yourself. You can be a success, become a somebody, and, thus, be happy.”
With that dangling carrot in mind, the false donkey “i” within us pulls back its shoulders and goes to work. Thoughts inform us that we must build an impressive resumé and be noticed to be worthy of the happiness we desire. We practice our hashtagging skills at every opportunity. We #this about ourselves, and we #that; #I was #here–don’t you know; and #I was #there. In our mind, life hashtags around me and my story.
As long as we continue to feed the insatiable appetite of our ego, we will #never…#be…#happy. Through wisdom, we can finally realize the insanity of the story we’ve been telling. How long is it–really–before the luster of the shiny new car wears off? How long is it--really–before the promotion that promised happiness is realized for what it is? How long is it–really–before the perfect partner we adored doesn’t meet our needs?
So what is the paradoxical truth alluded to at the beginning of this post? That the happiness we seek is recognized when we are empty of the “self” that requires anything in order to be happy. We discover–quite surprisingly–that when we #give of our heart, #be of service, and #share our resources, we are naturally the most joyous. And that’s not a story–it’s the Truth. I can’t imagine an emptier way to live than for #me, #me, #me.
Dare to dream (and care for one another).
With heartfelt regards,
Art
Copyright © – 2022 – R. Arthur Russell
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If you enjoyed this article, you can find more of my writing at https://think2wice.me/. My YouTube videos may be found through this link. May the content of either or both help you along your spiritual journey. 🙏🧡
Well said! May we celebrate the beauty of “us”.
Wishing you, and all of my W&S blogging friends an incredible new year!
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Thank you so much. 🙂: Yes, may we celebrate the beauty and glory of everyone! Wishing you and all of our friends far and wide an incredible new year!
Hey, SnapDragon. How are things? We miss you around here. Are you still traveling around all the time in your RV?
Hi Troy! I miss you all, too. It’s been too long!
I had another baby last January, so I’ve been in full-time Mom mode. Blog reading and writing comes at a premium these days, for sure. But I shall not give up! 😂
As for the RV, we took a trip out west last summer, and plan to see some of Tennessee this spring. We love it.
I also love the new look and feel of the site! Well done.
How are things with you, friend? 🕊
My #feelings too at this moment!
Wonderful, Tamara! #Thank YOU!
So true. The greatest joy comes in the service of others. The problem with the old adage, work hard and you will become successful, it is hard to swallow when so many mediocre individuals without a work ethic seem to make it to the top ahead of yourself. Many become disillusioned or worse still bitter when they are overlooked. We need to redefine our value through a different lens to understand our true purpose. Lynn
Thank you, Lynn, for taking the time to comment. I agree, our greatest joy comes through giving and being of service in some way. 🙏
This! “…be noticed to be worthy of the happiness we desire.” I think therein lies the problem much of the time… Thinking that being noticed results in happiness. #wrong
And you point out the fallacies to this way of thinking in such an eloquent way. Thank you for a great post, Art!
I’m so glad that you enjoyed my post! Thank you for taking the time to comment. I agree, needing to be noticed is one of the sure signs that ego is still at play. 🙏
Wonderful! Generous hearts, being of service to others…yes and yes! Thank you, Art! Beautiful —both timely and timeless wisdom. 😊❤️😊
#Thank you very much, dear Victoria! Your kind words mean a lot. I’m smiling…thanks. I’m glad that you enjoyed the post. 🙏
I certainly did…and it was the most perfect message for me today! 🥰
What a beautiful post, Art! … the insatiable appetite of our ego, why do humanity listen more to it than their deep self? When you put your ego aside, a world of wonder comes up!
Thank you so much, Cristiana; yes, the insatiable appetite of our ego–enough is never enough. The majority of humanity “listens” to the voice of the ego, which is usually repetitive and negative, because we have been conditioned to do so. Even a little self inquiry can reveal the Self that “knows” the voice of ego. The conceptual self, little “i” is witnessed. I appreciate your taking the time to comment.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend! 🙏
Great message, as usual, Art. I love your ironic and creative use of the hashtag throughout. Too many of us find meaning in the hashtag, but you do a good job showing how empty, ridiculous, and absurd such “living” is.
Thank you so much, Troy. Your kind words mean a lot!
Truly. Thank you R. Arthur.
You’re very welcome! 🙏🧡 Thank YOU!