“We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life, when all that we need to make us happy is something to be enthusiastic about” (Charles Kingsley).
RUNNING OUT TO MEET LIFE EAGERLY IS A WISE AND BENEFICIAL CHOICE. Whatever we do, we do it better when we do it eagerly rather than reluctantly. When we approach life with eagerness, we overcome obstacles more easily, gain cooperation from others more readily, and experience satisfaction more deeply.
If we take an honest look at our lives, however, many of us have to admit we’ve let the forces of daily existence grind down our eagerness, perhaps to the point where there’s little left of it. Maybe we’re not at the point of despair or outright rebellion, but we find ourselves merely tolerating life rather than living it. We’re only “going through the motions.” As G. K. Chesterton remarked, “There is a great deal of difference between an eager man who wants to read a book and the tired man who wants a book to read.” Just so, there is a big difference between the person who has a life to live and the one who merely has to live life — between “living” and “being lived.”
But we can do better, can’t we? We can rebuild our reserves of enthusiasm and eagerness. It may take time to get back in touch with the principles that spark excitement, but it’s worth working on, starting today. And one of the best reasons is that we honor others by being eager. Our general attitude toward life comes through in our dealings with those around us, and when we’re living our lives eagerly, others experience that eagerness as a welcoming, enthusiastic approach to them personally. It’s like giving them a hug!
Deep down, eagerness is a product of gratitude. Instead of taking life for granted, enthusiasts appreciate it as a gift and a privilege. Without denying their difficulties, eager individuals emphasize their opportunities — and they show their gratitude for them by actively embracing them. With each new day, we get a chance to recharge our attitude and take another run at life’s requirements. While some folks greet the rising sun with a groan, others are rarin’ to go. When we decide which it will be, we make a choice that will affect not only our lives but those of our loved ones, too.
“Wake up with a smile and go after life . . . Live it, enjoy it, taste it, smell it, feel it” (Joe Knapp).
Gary Henry – WordPoints.com + AreYouaChristian.com
