Monday, January 22, 2024
I made a vow. I have committed myself to doing only what is enjoyable, interesting, and helpful to myself. Call me selfish, but I have a model – St. Augustine, who famously said, “Love, and do what you like.”
The only way that you will ever save and savor your life is to engage in what you want to. Anything else is disingenuous. You are dispensable and no-one needs you. If you feel indispensable, then you’ve got a problem, and you’ll have to play the part of the “hero.” There may be a person in your life who needs assistance; however, it doesn’t mean it has to be you. The universe can use whomever it wants, but it will always be someone who wants to help. If you love helping, and it brings you joy, do it. Engaging because you’re afraid, you feel guilty, or you feel you won’t be doing your “heroic” duty is not a good reason to say yes. St. Augustine does not say “Do what you dislike.”
This mantra comes from a saint, not a so-called selfish person. In doing what you like, you will be honest. When you’re honest, you’re at your best. In doing what you hate, you’ll be dishonest, and you’ll be at your worst. I like being my best. If I know I won’t like it, and I don’t want it, I kindly say “no.” The word no can be liberating, even if it seems to hurt another. It’s just a word. If they interpret your no the wrong way, it’s still not your problem. Is saying no the worst thing you can do? You can say yes begrudgingly, and then have a bad attitude and be sluggish, resistant, and grumpy. That is not your best. Sometimes saying no is the best way to be your best.