At the Center of It All

Philosopher in Meditation. (Image via Wikipedia)

In case you aren’t up on Internet slang, the acronym in the title of this post means “In My Humble Opinion.” It is often used in conversations to mark points that are (a) already obviously opinions and (b) just as obviously not humble. Users of this phrase generally recognize that they are pontificating and making a pronouncement beyond the scope of their expertise and experience.

Such is the case with this article. I’ve made some observations and come to some conclusions about what is important in life, at least in mine, and felt they were worthy of sharing here. This is my (current, changing) explanation of What Really Matters. Of course, the purpose of this blog is more for me to have a place to hash out ideas and wrestle with aspects of my spiritual journey than to enlighten anyone else about anything. I just find that the hashing and wrestling are more effective when done in conversation with other people than within my own head.

So you get to hear me pontificate and make pronouncements beyond the scope of my expertise and experience. But feel free to tell me how wrong I am and where I missed the boat. Besides, nothing I’m thinking here is really new. Others before me have expressed it better than I. It just happens to be my turn this week to recognize them.

Here are the things I’m realizing matter most in life. For now, just a list (in no particular order). A more detailed reflection on each one will have to wait for another day.

• Trust God
• Love (both the noun and the verb)
• Learn
• Have integrity
• Take pleasure in small things every day
• Lift someone else up every day
• Care
• Simplify
• Build relationships not walls
• Don’t run from pain or obstacles
• Embrace change
• Use your gifts and chase your passions–they come from God

Nothing earth-shattering here. But these are things I didn’t know twenty years ago, and don’t really fully understand now. Not only that, but I also fully recognize that the list isn’t finished. I’m not so arrogant as to believe that I have it all figured out. But for now, for today, these are the things that I believe God is showing me about how to live my life, and the things that will make my life satisfying and relevant.

In my humble opinion.