Means and Ends

Does the end justify the means? I hear this statement altogether too often. And I find it utterly ridiculous. If one has to question, then one is wrestling with himself and against his naturally nurtured conscience. ;) It's all a matter of perspective here anyway. When the end is 'righteous' as it has so commonly been said, then any means is justified, but what is righteousness? What is wickedness? How can something so relative be solidified unless there is a ruler to measure against? Far too common in the history of mankind has injustice been masked as the cause fighting for the 'greater good.' Can that even be judged without the ability to predict the future? And what of the differences of culture, country, family traditions, or religion? But I wander in my musings. This is a line of thought for another day!

Rather, I wish to speak of the manner in which one lives his life. We can focus on ends, we can describe them, imagine them, dream them, boast of them and even 'accomplish' them. Many people call them goals. We attempt to visualize having something currently outside of our 'possession' or in the more abstract sense outside of our ability to 'reach' or 'be.' And we strive to attain it. Goal setting is perceived as an art mastered by 'successful' people, and yet so many of the goal setting gurus that I have known are seldom satisfied. They struggle to find themselves moving forward in life. They achieve so many of the things that they want to do, and yet don't often discover happiness, just more goals to pursue.

I imagine that I would differ to opine that goals are not so necessary as many understand them to be. I set goals myself, but I do not micro manage them. I don't create 10 or 12 steps on a staircase that I absolutely must follow. I visualize arriving to the top of the hill, but I do not mark the trail beforehand. I seek simply to arrive. If it is something I desire, I will get there. If not, it's luster will fade and I will find myself climbing to a different peak. Apart from simply choosing destinations, I spend much more of my time developing habits. Instead of conforming to preset actions, I instead pass my time refining who I am. When I am more able, I'll climb much further. My effort continues to become more efficient, my labors more concentrated and powerful.

I believe that much of success is confidence, of imagery and also of self acceptance. Being aware of oneself, one's needs and desires and applying passions to abilities and strengths makes a person powerful. Knowing where you want to go is powerful. But refining oneself and cultivating valuable habits provides a lever. With a lever or gear speed or force can be greatly amplified.

Enough.