“The man who blames others has a long way in his journey to go. The man who blames himself is halfway there. The man who blames no one has already arrived.” — Chinese proverb
This wise observation reminds us that the path to inner peace and growth lies in radical self-accountability. While we can’t control every little thing the universe throws our way, we can choose how we react to it. Each of us is the protagonist of our own epic adventure, tasked with navigating a world where everyone’s just trying to get theirs. Embracing this reality is oddly empowering — it means we get to be the flawed-but-lovable heroes of our own story, charting our course with intention and resilience.
I know, I know, all this self-actualization talk can be a real buzz-kill. But hear me out: Taking stock of what really matters — whether that’s being a kick-ass parent, geeking out over Bitcoin, or just moving that beautiful body — that’s where the magic happens. Sure, pursuing your passions can make you want to tear your hair out sometimes, but isn’t that just the sweet admission fee for those fleeting moments of pure, transcendent joy?
So keep chipping away, one day at a time. Embrace the suck. Heck, maybe even let out a primal scream now and then; no judgments here. Before long, you’ll be looking back at that formidable personal mountain you conquered ready to conquer the next one.
4/10/24
Conor Jay Chepenik
