When is enough enough?

We are encouraged by society to go through life constantly charging onward and upward. Most often, this is as specific as the plan gets. There is no particular destination, only the gut level need to keep moving on to the next step - the next job or promotion, the next degree or certification, the next house, the next car, more chrome on the Harley...

The problem with doing things this way is you never know when you have arrived, and consequently you are never satisfied.

Society encourages this approach to life. Those that seem to be content are disdainfully accused of having no ambition, while the perpetual scramblers, hustlers, and climbers are held in high esteem. It takes courage to swim against the current, to be happy and satisfied with who you are, where you are, and what you have.

To be content is to live a prayer, to be constantly appreciative and grateful for the blessings you have been given. I believe the secret to happiness is within this concept - to recognize a good thing when you have it and to hold on tight with both hands rather than reaching for something “more” with the other hand.

Human nature being what it is, you may only realize you were in paradise after you leave.

This painting was inspired by my reflections on this topic. I take no credit for these insights, the wisdom is as old as humankind.

The title of this painting is “Eden”.

Painting and text © 2015 James Golaszews