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Paul Joseph's avatar

Well-framed and spot on. If our identities are built on an "ought" self - what external perspectives/society tells us we 'ought' to be - our measures for success tend to be externally driven ('outcomes' assessed from the outside-in). This did a nice job reminding me that our ideal/virtous self should be measured on 'progress not perfection' as the saying goes.

Daniel Heard's avatar

I had to smile at this, because you actually just wrote a beautiful, description of karma! In the West, karma is often misunderstood as 'cosmic scorekeeping' or a metaphysical rewards system. But the original word simply translates to 'action' or 'doing.' It’s the reality that our intentional choices leave imprints on our minds, shaping our habits and ultimately building our character.

Dr Lynn Anderson's avatar

Thanks - great perspective - have failed and succeeded, and both gave me growth and wisdom. Doctor Lynn - Karma Master

ITAI ROZOVSKY MD's avatar

This is spot on and optimistic. Even though It’s very hard not to be cynical. When what you say is so true :”The implicit contract was always bullshit.” But too much trying to rely upon measuring your success by the effort and developing character, does not pay the rent nor alleviate some possible disillusionments of too many perceived failures. Feelings matter. How would one feel about some critic saying one’s writings was pure bs, however , ones character improved. The implicit contract is, like you said, that , (unfortunately), In the end, our world does run mostly on outcomes.

Seng Saechao's avatar

The timing of this couldn't have been more precise and powerful. I can't thank you enough.

Patrick SONGA's avatar

I do believe that we came on this earth with a predefined pathway to each one of us, and it's what differentiates success among people.

You can't go beyond your predefined pathway but you can explore less that you were prepared for.

That's what i believe

Leonard Symeonides's avatar

Very good! I needed to read this today.

At Em's avatar

Cuz people judge it as such and then it feels that way.