Creating a Meaningful Life
We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. (2 Thessalonians 1:3)
Life is not easy. Many have demanding careers, families we want to be present with, friends who desire our time, and spiritual energies that often feel neglected. Then, add all the surprising joys in life, like the air conditioning unit breaking on the hottest day of the year, and you have a normal life as frustrating as everyone else’s. Creating a meaningful life is not about molding an easy existence. Instead, a faithful life occurs when we face challenges with integrity and on our and God’s terms.
In “4 Things Mentally Tough People Don’t Do,” Nick Wignall guides us to an emotionally stronger position. Wignall challenges us about “1. Getting lost in your own thoughts.” Being present with those you are with is respectful and helps one learn and grow. Caring for others provides better motivation than Wignall describes as “2. Using punishment to motivate yourself.” Berating yourself will only lead to diminishment, and that is never a good motivation tool. Wignall provides a descriptive quote from an unknown source, “Falling off the wagon isn’t the problem. It’s the rolling around in the mud that gets you.”
Another habit that will keep you stuck in the mud is “3. Prioritizing outcomes over growth.” Results should not define our worth. Instead, growth is a long-term benefit, providing lasting maturity and strength. Finally, Wignall surprised me by stating, “4. Not making time to be alone.” My extrovert gene jumped in indignation. Yet, his article stood firm amid my questioning. Wignall proclaims, “In order to work with your mind instead of being sabotaged by it, you have to understand it. But you’ll never understand your mind if you don’t make time for it.” If you don’t feel comfortable alone, you will never settle down with yourself long enough to reflect on the Spirit’s guidance.
Wignall quotes Michel de Montaigne, “The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.” That is an excellent secular quote. As people of faith, we are called to feel comfortable alone to make room for the Holy Spirit to enter and transform us. Working on ourselves is not selfish. Intentionally working to mature emotionally and spiritually is our life-long calling. Taking time and energy to reflect faithfully will provide healthy and lasting relationships in our work, personal, and spiritual lives.