Distraction

The doctrine of individualism is so attractive for within its much vaunted ‘freedom’ is the prospect of controlling one’s own future. This seems exciting and adventurous with the opportunity to improve one’s lot in life; one only needs to try one’s best. However, one is coerced to compete with your fellow man; a survival of the fittest, a seemingly fair meritocracy but in essence it serves only to place you at a higher vantage point; elitism at it most subtle, a betrayal of your humanity and compassion. The other problem of being in charge of one’s future, is the responsibility it entails. For you then have to plan in meticulous detail not just one’s own life but that of your family and even friends. The slightest mistake, you are told could have dire consequences and understandably you seek help and assistance, which comes in the form of education and professional advice. The irony being that no sooner are you given the right to determine your own life, you subconsciously hand over the controls to someone else. These ‘do-gooders’ are only too happy to come to your aid because your misery has given them a ‘raison d’etre’.

Your rescue has come at a price as you surround yourself with counsellors and teachers; however, it simply becomes a case of the blind leading the blind. Those fortunate to compete well, struggle to then find a purpose in their own lives and therefore engage in another form of struggle because if they dare to look inwards, they would see the void that forever haunts them. The solution is that of distraction which comes in many forms, from monetary acquisitions or time-consuming occupations. In a stereotypical way, people work hard to earn the money to buy goods they do NOT need to try to fill the emptiness in their own lives. Sadly, the demands often outstrip the supply, and you find yourself boarding life’s treadmill in the vain hope you will then achieve happiness.

Even relationships come with ‘strings’ and meeting the expectations of a loved one can be even harder than meeting your own. If, however, you relinquish control to God, you can rest assured that He will endeavour to plan your life, with the acknowledgement that although your life may not present itself with good health or wealth, you will be given the inner strength to endure. Happiness would be a strange concept here, but true serenity is possible but only when you are prepared to look upon the hollowness of your own life and face the fears it then presents; this involves talking to the only One who can truly help you. The result is the realisation that the pursuit of approval, from others in terms of heroic exploits, riches or even academic achievements is meaningless and that the meaning of life is found in the way you live it, and not by material objectives.