“my way” and the American way

The best, like water,
Benefit all and do not compete.
They dwell in lowly spots that everyone else scorns.
Putting others before themselves,
They find themselves in the foremost place
And come very near to the Tao.
  – Lao Tzu

Easwaran muses: In today’s competitive climate, often those who are aggressive about imposing their will on others are labeled “successful.” But the accomplishments of such people are often sadly short-lived, while the damage they do themselves and others can be far-reaching. When competitiveness is excessive, we end up offending others, feeling offended, and lashing back, and that undoes everything worthwhile we might achieve.

People who do not compete, on the other hand, seldom get upset when life goes against them. They do not try to impose their way on others, or get agitated or depressed or defensive when people hold different views.

Gandhi was an excellent example of this. It is said that he was at his best when he was criticized; it made him even more respectful and compassionate, and made him reach deeper into himself to find new ways of explaining his stand.

My life from 1981-2001 was a reflection of this most American of traits, hyper competition. I sought to be the winner in “my career” --to rise above my colleagues—to be at the top, at the expense of whatever or whomever got in the way. I want not so much to be “right” but to walk “in the way of Christ, who in all things gives me strength” -being comfortable when others are right or when others are successful.

I confess-- this trait has not been eradicated from my character completely, but at least now I am aware of its destructiveness, and by the presence of the Spirit in my heart, she –through holy sophia-can guard the soul.

“Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality, as it is written: "He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little."

—II Corinthians 8

Now I am driven by the love of Christ, the essential self within--or at least that is what is the higher calling in my life.

By the grace of God, I pray, “may the peace of Christ be with you”.