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Living a Flourishing Life

We seek better; yet many continuously struggle. Life overwhelms and many live in agony, disappointed with themselves and their lives. In 2004, I experienced several setbacks, questioning life's purpose, I began to search. Already armed with a degree in psychology, and ten years of experience policing a large city, I had ideas (biases). The search included thousands of books, challenging accepted ideas, and delving into past philosophies and research. With all this, I have yet to discover the answer; but I am continually intrigued by knowledge. We move forward, incorporating new experiences, enriching our lives and flourishing.

"Like the tree, a flourishing life is a fruitful life; it will show signs of growth and health with plenty of nourishing fruit." ~Brian Houston
Flourishing Lives
Growth isn't a singular event; but a lifelong endeavor. We add healthy relationships, compassionate acceptance, and healthy pursuits; life responds. We flourish. We achieve this not through narrowing borders of self; but an ever widening acceptance of our interdependence with others. Life alone is shallow, ignoring our shared histories that created our life, as it is, and as it shall be. Flourishing is a state of growing--continually growing. We don't reach the peak of the self-actualizing pyramid and stagnate on a throne. Enjoy the journey.
I haven't discovered an all-encompassing answer to the problems of the world. In this empty find, I am in good company. The philosophers, scientists, and religious leaders also struggle to uncover ultimate answers. Maybe there are none. We are left to gather the bits and pieces of knowledge scattered along the path of human history, put the tidbits together in a rude structure, simulating meaning. We find some insights that work for but not for others. At times, we stumble on something appearing to be the holy grail, only to find conflicting information later. Yes, this is life, the search, and eventual end. But life brings joys and pleasures along the way. We have opportunity to be meaningful, bring goodness to others, and enjoy the twilight of our lives with the serenity of a life well-lived.
This weeks newly edited articles:
External websites to help your journey: