The Birth of Comparison and Its Effects
Self-doubt gives birth to comparison, comparison fosters competition, which can lead to conflict. Observing the world, we see others climb ladders of success, whispering in reflection, “I aspire to be them or like them.” A reasonable yearning, observing the potential mirrored in another’s triumph and desiring a similar fate. The error lies in failing to witness the full bloom of this covetous thought. We bask in the radiance of others’ achievements, desiring to emulate their journey. Still, this mimeticism can misguide, making us blind to the inception of such desires: a fractured relationship with ourselves.
The glittering end results — power, fame, wealth, adulation — dazzle our eyes, and like mesmerized fish, we snap at the lure. The pursuit is fueled by a longing to garner similar affection from our brethren, hoping that this external adoration will fill the internal void, making us feel valued in our own eyes.
In the pursuit of greatness, a fundamental question emerges: can genuine progress exist without the collective drive toward excellence? While at first glance, the argument for mutual ambition seems robust, a deeper inspection exposes its fragile foundation. The real concern is not merely about achieving milestones but the underlying motives that propel us. It’s essential to discern that it’s not the actions we take but the intentions behind them, the mindset with which we approach our goals. Ultimately, we must confront a poignant inquiry: what emptiness within us are we attempting to satiate through our accomplishments?
The Misguided Search for Fulfillment
The human inclination towards success is deeply rooted in our desire for societal validation. This is driven largely by “mimetic desire” — an inherent tendency to emulate the aspirations of others. Yet, at the core of this chase is not just the aim to mirror another’s path but a profound longing to affirm our own existence, both to ourselves and the world around us. In moments of despair, we seek refuge in material acquisitions, relationships, alcohol, food, sex, and other distractions, blindly colliding with anything that promises respite from confronting our inner shadows. We dodge sitting in our unease, evading the quest to understand its roots. Trust and patience are eroded, replaced with self-doubt, propelling us to seek external proof of our worth.
This is the genesis of counterfeit spirituality, the clinging to external entities as a newborn clings to a mother. This is the quest for the final destination, evading the journey’s trials, due to the overwhelming fear of facing our authentic selves. The silence and stillness strip us bare, laying our layered existence naked, igniting a violence birthed from the inability to attain from within what we seek from others. The real journey, the path to authenticity, is one of inner exploration, unearthing and embracing our true selves amidst the cacophony of life’s distractions and illusions.
Devouring the external world in a quest to patch our inner voids is vastly different from leading a meaningful life while savoring worldly joys. I don’t advocate renouncing life’s pleasures for a hermit’s existence, gazing at one’s navel in a desolate cave. Balance is pivotal. Authenticity —a deep dive into our agony and processes, devoid of attempts to plaster over our gaps with people, places, and things —paves the path to a meaningful life. Inauthenticity, conversely, likens us to swine, trudging in mire, unable to discern pearls from corn kernels.
Our internal void is externalized, seeking solace in nouns that seem to epitomize what we lack. We lurk in the shadows of others, yearning for crumbs of their existence, akin to a hungry hound beneath a feast-laden table. This mindset reflects a mistrust of our unique path, possibly from obliviousness to its existence. The transition from dependency to self-reliance, from blindly seeking ‘the magical other’ to embarking on self-growth, is paramount. Perhaps our collective stagnation indicates a global failure to exit the womb of dependency.
Embracing Inner Light Amidst External Shadows
Self-belief is overshadowed when we attribute our struggles and victories to others. While it’s essential to express gratitude for the assistance and guidance of others, since none of us journey through life in isolation, we must also ensure that we don’t rely exclusively on others for our happiness and sense of worth. Doing so can result in a weakened sense of self.
By giving up control, we lead a borrowed life, captivated by the idea of external saviors, blending with others in a frantic search for clarity. Acknowledging our inner emptiness paves the way for a sincere and purposeful engagement with the world.
The false notion that our deliverance lies in the hands of others drives an urgent search for outside approval. In a perpetual pursuit of affirmation, the lingering question, “Am I alright?” echoes deep within. Inherently human, there comes a moment for self-reflection, a reconnection with our core, breaking free from the chains of seeking external appreciation.
While guidance on a mountain trail is wise, personally navigating the terrain is key to truly experiencing its essence. Bearing one’s burdens, symbolizing acceptance of personal challenges, isn’t about heavenly gains but understanding oneself. This journey of self-awareness is deeply personal; though guidance can help, the growth is inherently ours.
The saying, “Chop wood, carry water,” underscores the beauty in the routine, reminding us that everyday tasks can be magical in their simplicity. Amidst daily chores, there’s a rhythm of life unfolding, prompting us to stay present and grounded.
Deep within, a tiny beacon shines, even in the overwhelming shadows. Yet, welcoming the darkness is crucial, for it turns our search for light into a significant epiphany. This darkness isn’t a misfortune but a backdrop where our inner brilliance crafts a tale of self-discovery.
Question to consider: “How would life transform if I held unwavering faith in myself?”
Let’s look out for each other