The Secret of Life
BY: T. Franklin Murphy |May 2018
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Intrigued by secrets, we seek the hidden, wasting precious time chasing unknown promises. Success is no secret formula. We achieve through consistent skilled effort, blessed by a little luck.
Hidden within these paragraphs you will discover the answer to the question of life. Carefully look past the words into the spaces in between, jumping from the screen to your mind you will find the holy grail of meaning. Forgive my teaser; we love the mystic promises of power to cure the ills of living. Life meaning is not an ancient secret that has been carefully guarded and now graciously available to the true believers willing to buy the latest best-seller. I ‘m suspicious of secrets—especially when only revealed for profit or fame.
We want a problem free life. If the perfect existence was discovered, the secret would be out. Any books, programs, paid commercials, products or facebook pages offering paradise needs scrutinizing. Often creators market a plan that they hope will bring them fame rather than a proven recipe for a better life. So, entrepreneurs sell flawed ideas, presented as grand secrets, hoping to cash in on vulnerable of consumers. If we constantly seek paradise, reality—full of its troubles, hurts and shortcomings--appears distasteful. Many reject the realities because the real world fails to provide what they desire. Happiness doesn’t come in a bottle, a booklet of mantras or a great partner—although these may help. The requirements of healthy living shouldn’t be a surprise. Tranquility in the present gives meaning to life. Tranquility isn’t a life devoid of troubles; but an acceptance of what life is. The moment is enriched through pleasure, security and connection. Health, finances, hobbies, and relationships intertwine to bless presents and futures. I guarantee that unpredictable happenings will interrupt plans and derail some dreams; but we can still extract joy from the imperfect present.
Experiencing joy doesn't evolve from earth shattering insights of meaning; but quietly and almost imperceptibly from thousands of little moments. There is no GREAT secret to life, as titillating as a “great secret” might sound, it does not exist. Constantly seeking an imaginary secret to healthy living frustrates efforts, leaving us discouraged and disappointed. "Life meaning is not an ancient secret that has been carefully guarded and now graciously available to the true believers willing to buy the latest best-seller." With wisdom, patience, and effort, we discover the tidbits of joy available. Healthy practices minimize future anxieties. We never master the complexities of living because life is dynamic, constantly changing; living with purpose and joy is challenging. But as healthy choices accumulate, sorrows soften, relationships improve, and joys begin to permeate our lives. This stoic process of growth is available to all, not only those who stumbled on an ancient secret. With a little effort, a wise mentor, and a lot of patience, we flourish.
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