Intention versus Expectation (Demand)God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
- Reinhold Niebuhr
Yesterday's Daily Inspiration generated controversy. Generally, that's good, and I'm pleased when my messages arouse thought and new insights. My intent in each Daily Inspiration is to make a brief point that I hope will be meaningful and provide something to think about. Since nothing important is easy or has only one facet, you may see Daily Inspirations that appear contradictory as I present different points of view on aspects of life. This is also why I occasionally write longer articles that attempt to examine issues in more detail.
In yesterday's attempt at brevity, I failed to distinguish between the intentions we hold for our inspired future and the demands (expectations) we tend to place on life.
The comments I received focused appropriately on the balance between accepting what life hands us, and working diligently to create the best life we can. One comment was, "I don't want to live my life as a log floating down the river."
My own guideline for balancing action with acceptance, is that in living today and in designing my future, I choose action. I approach life from the point of view that there is nothing that I can't accomplish. However, with regard to the past, I believe that graceful unconditional acceptance is the only path to happiness. As William Shakespeare says, "What's done is done."
I believe that the Serenity Prayer says the same thing, but I place particular emphasis on the point that everything in the past falls into the category of things we can only accept.
My article The Paradox Of Living In The Moment - How To Be Happy Today And Prepare For Tomorrow attempts to address the paradox of taking charge of our future while accepting our past.
Play to win, but be a good loser. Have a plan for your life, but accept whatever comes your way with grace and gratitude.
- Jonathan Lockwood Huie
Light and Joy...
Jonathan
Further reading: The Serenity Prayer - God grant me the serenity...
don Miguel Ruiz: Always do your best
Vince Lombardi quote: Winning isn't everything, but wanting to win is
Today is the bridge between acceptance and faith
If you live near Toronto Canada, click here for an inspirational and motivational event in your area.
1 comments:
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
- Reinhold Niebuhr
I've actually got this prayer in my study room (on the wall) but I never knew who it was originally from till now. It is such a beautiful prayer.
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