In baseball, the game begins after the umpire ceremoniously cries, “play ball”. It’s giving permission to start playing. The batter steps up to the plate and its off to the races. But what happens when it’s our turn to step up to the plate? We take our share of swings because it’s implied to do so. School, work, relationships, money, fun, etc. Maybe it’s just me, but the idea of doing life solely based on punching the clock, paying bills and being dutiful, only to live for a little fun on the weekend seems dismal. Obviously we all have to work and have responsibilities, but is that all there is? To my core I believe we all have a longing inside us that insatiably calls out to us that we were meant for more. It’s as if things aren’t as they were meant to be and somethings missing. But what is it?
I think we catch glimpses of it when we’re doing the things that make us feel alive. For me, adventuring is usually what strikes that chord. Exploring in nature always fills my tank and resets me. But it isn’t just about nature. I get the same sense of adventure exploring different cities, finding new restaurants, having engaging conversations, learning new things, you name it. But what I’ve noticed in myself and others is the thing that gasses us up the most is when we’re doing things for others. Admittedly, I can be a selfish guy. But in the moments when I’m able to help someone, and see the impact of it, I feel way better than when I’m just self-indulging.
We all need outlets and activities that feed us. It’s not selfish, is necessary. Something I’ve tried to focus on is being able to concurrently enjoy my life while helping others. It’s a process and I’m far from perfect, but I’m learning. An idea someone posed to me a while back offers a solution: engage in those activities WITH people. It’s not always about doing things FOR people, it’s also about doing things WITH people. In doing so it opens the door to help people discover the things that make them come alive, and allows you to help fuel that fire. Which in turn prompts them to do the same with others and so on. I think it should all happen organically. The second we treat people like projects, all bets are off. Which is why I make sure my own tank is full before I focus on someone else.
So what are the things in your life that make you feel alive? Are the things you were once passionate about stale and you need something new? What are the ways you like helping people? Is it possible to use the things you’re passionate about to help others? Think about it, we don’t take action because we’re subconsciously plagued by the idea of waiting for permission. Instead of just diving in and taking a swing at the things we’d like to do, we often get inoculated by fears, “what if’s”, or having it all mapped out before we move. It’s like asking the umpire in the middle of the game for permission to take a swing, it’s futile. You’ll never know if you can play unless you step up to bat. Sure, you might strike out. But living with the “what if’s” is far worse. So step up and swing away.
“I will not spend the years depleted of my willingness to try.” – The heart is a muscle
Becoming is 