Weekly Thought – July 29, 2014
Fred’s gift of discernment enabled him to understand people. When analyzing situations, he said he “looked for the ego.” In writing on perseverance he identified an unhealthy ego and boredom as two enemies of endurance. He considered boredom unimaginable to the fertile mind.
In September, we will begin a year long Centennial Celebration culminating in a 100th birthday event in 2015, recognizing Fred’s anniversary. During the year we will focus on highlights of his life. Please share your “how Fred stretched me” thoughts with us.
Enemies of the Good
Where are we deriving our ego satisfaction? Where are we deriving our ego satisfaction? Do we seek gratification from others or practice dedication to the betterment of others?
It is key to understand ego is intrinsic to our human nature. We do not strive to empty ourselves, but we seek to have the proper perspective which leads to a healthy ego. Difficult times can war against us, leaving us wounded. Loss often detaches us from our healthy ego and makes us feel rootless. The challenge is to find a healthy alternative.
In tough times, we quickly identify our ego centers. Our child is involved in illegal activities, our spouse is jailed for fraudulent business practices, we lose our prestigious job and social standing, or a friend betrays us… we quickly must find the foundation of our true identity.
Often, when this happens we replace the displaced ego through inappropriate and improper means. We rush to fill the vacuum and find nothing but a giant sucking sound. Persevering requires building on the Rock, not the sands of unhealthy and shallow ego expectations.
The addiction of activity affects us all. When the pace slows down, we feel we are dying. Speed and noise are our pep pills. Some get caught in the web of the adrenaline rush, losing the ability to recognize authentic energy. They go for the hype – whether in religion, business, or social life. They find the constant, even plodding rhythm of perseverance extremely difficult.
We value the fast lane, the type A, jet-setting lifestyle, and struggle with inactivity. Boredom, to me, comes from having an entirely erroneous view of the “good life.” Unfortunately, some fold their roadmaps for life in all the wrong places because they are looking for the shortcut and fail to enjoy the journey.
Boredom is a thief, stealing our joy, and impoverishing our spirits. It is an arrogant and presumptuous attitude, not given to perseverance or its rewards.
This week think about: 1) How do I check my healthy/unhealthy ego condition? 2) What has been my recent reality check? 3) Who needs to think about the enemy of boredom?
Words of Wisdom: “Persevering requires building on the Rock, not the sands of unhealthy and shallow ego expectations.”
Wisdom from the Word: “Guard against self-deception, each of you. If someone among you thinks he is wise in this age, let him become foolish so that he can become wise.” (1 Corinthians 3:18 NET Bible)