“We behave as if comfort and luxury were the chief necessities of life, while all we need to make ourselves happy is excitement” (Charles Kingsley).
Running outside is a wise and beneficial option to fulfill life eagerly. Whatever we do, we do it better when we do it eagerly rather than reluctantly. When we approach life with curiosity, we overcome obstacles more easily, receive support from others more easily, and experience more deep satisfaction.
However, if we take an honest look at our lives, many of us have to admit that we have allowed the forces of daily survival to diminish our curiosity, perhaps to the point where there is very little of it left. Perhaps we are not at the point of despair or complete rebellion, but we find ourselves merely enduring life rather than living it. We’re just “going through the motions.” As GK Chesterton commented, “There is a great difference between an eager man who wants a book to read and a tired man who wants a book to read.” Just like that, between a person who has life to live and someone who just has to live, there is a big difference – between “living” and “living”.
But we can do better, right? We can rebuild our reserves of enthusiasm and curiosity. It may take time to get back in touch with the principles that arouse enthusiasm, but it is worth working on it starting today. And one of the best reasons is that we respect others by being curious. Our general attitude toward life is manifested in our interactions with those around us, and when we are living our lives curiously, other people experience that eagerness as a welcoming, enthusiastic attitude toward them personally. It’s like hugging them!
Deep down, curiosity is a product of Thankfulness. Instead of taking life for granted, enthusiasts appreciate it as a gift and privilege. Without denying their difficulties, curious individuals emphasize their opportunities – and they express their gratitude for them by actively embracing them. With each new day, we get a chance to reenergize our perspective and meet the needs of life. While some people welcome the rising sun with a groan, others shy away from doing so. When we decide what it will be, we make a choice that will affect not only our lives but also the lives of our loved ones.
“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
