Compass of Life

To have control over a situation is deemed desirable due to the nature of our interests. However, life does not revolve solely around our interests or those of others. So, how does one approach life in a way that yields desirable results?

Upon pondering this question, a revelation became clear, and began to guide my thoughts towards an answer. Let's imagine, for a moment, that life is like the vast Earth, with everything open for exploration and interpretation. Each sails their ships, following their desires, as they are in control of their vessels. The direction is seemingly in our destiny, but herein lies the fallacy.

I have control over my ship, yet everything else remains out of reach. The waves, the wind, the sun, and what lurks beneath the water—all beyond my control. I can steer my ship in the direction I wish to go, but I must be reminded that everything else outside of that remains elusive.

In other words, I can guide my life in the desired direction, but there is no guarantee I will reach my destination precisely. The chance of reaching the desired island is more likely than not. It's essential to be reminded that I may not arrive at the exact dock position, but I can get close enough and adjust as I approach to eventually dock.

The key phrase here is "in the direction" I desire. For example, if my goal is to quit playing video games because their nature no longer serves me, and I usually play for seven hours a day, reducing it to six hours and 45 minutes the next day, and then to six hours and 15 minutes the following day, on the surface, I might have "stopped" playing completely. However, it's progressing in the direction I desire. The speed at which I arrive there is entirely up to my evolutionary nature. As long as I am headed in the right direction, I will reach my conclusion.

Conversely, the opposite could also occur. If I desire to stop playing but end up playing more without caring about my progress, eventually, the progress will be lost in translation and fade away in the mist. Thus, it is crucial to be patient and kind to ourselves when embarking on a journey of growth in any desirable path. Give it time and effort, and it's bound to arrive, as long as the action aligns with the desire for change.

Be kind, gentle souls,
-Tien