There are times in my life when I wish I weren't so flawed. The sad truth is, we are all imperfect whether we try and hide it or embrace it and let it help us connect with others. Life, itself, is flawed....hopelessly, flawed.
I have heard it expressed that we would all be better off if we would only focus on the positives - never criticize or voice concern. I do believe, at times, this can be true...to some extent, but question what would be the outcome if we didn't acknowledge the hard parts of our lives or the pain and suffering of others? Would there ever be change? Would we address the issues and imperfections that hold us back or would we gloss over their existence, learning nothing and spinning in a circle? A merry-go-round can be fun, but for me it has only ever caused me to become a little disoriented with my surroundings and distort reality. In contrast, moving forward, even if it's an uphill climb and difficult, feels much better once at the top. A conquering sense of accomplishment over an imperfection can be one of the most exhilarating experiences one can have. Progress is positive, but we can't move forward without first being honest about where we are.
So here is the question: where is the balance? I believe it is a very fine line; trying to look for the positives and have hope while earnestly trying to improve ourselves, others, and our surroundings. Life can be overwhelming with hardship and uncertainty. I think the simple idea of only being positive can bring momentary peace of mind, but feels disingenuous when there is so much that can be improved on. It also seems to take away a sense of empowerment and responsibility, that you have within you the ability to change something....anything really, but must simply accept what is and look at only the good it has to offer whether it's overall value is a net positive or negative. Plus, how marginalizing is it for another, when speaking of their own struggles, is told to only look for the good, instead of validating what could be a very painful existence?
I had a good friend share with me a blog post that takes a deeper look at how the illusion of or delusion that we are supposed to be "happy" all the time can be limiting and detrimental. You can find it here: http://bravetheworld.com/…/01/27/cult-happy-tool-submission/
I have really tried to examine my own behavior when it comes to being positive or negative and have come to the conclusion that for me, the barometer will probably fluctuate. There will be times when I am wallowing in self pity and need to adjust my sails and take in the positives that surround me because I am immensely blessed. Then there will be other times, when it's uncomfortable, comes at a personal cost, or doesn't affect me at all but could help alleviate another's suffering, that it's necessary to shine a light on something less than sunny. Ignorance is not always bliss.
I have a movie that I love. I can watch it over and over and over and.... Anyway, I think it expresses exactly what I am talking about. Here's a clip:
If you haven't seen Silver Linings Playbook, you should. If you have, watch it again and be inspired to look for the silver linings in life while also dealing with the hard stuff. It's not about being perfect or appearing to be so, it's about striving to be better, to do better, and making this world a better place for all. During some of the most difficult times is when the true beauty of life is revealed. Excelsior!, my friends!!
