The Grind

"We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop." - Mother Theresa 

Frequently when you have conversations with your friends and have the universal conversation kick-starter: "How are you doing?" or "How have you been?" The answer always seems to be the same: "I'm doing fine." But what does it mean to be just fine? 

To me, life is a grind. After a while it becomes a routine mush of going through the motions of daily life whether that be going to school, paying the bills, going to bed, and resetting the cycle the next day. No doubt, some people have more exciting, adventurous lives; however, for the overwhelming majority of us, we have to live with the "alright" rather than "great" status.

I'm interested in this feeling because there are many different ways to look at whether alright is really "alright" status for humanity to be in. Some argue that being alright or great is a matter of perspective. If you modify your perspective and look at the brighter side of things you will be more than alright, and that mentality will become your reality. Although, others have argued that the lack of feeling is the best way to approach live, since desire produces unhappiness.

I would contend that the greatest fulfillment in life comes from spiritual fulfillment. I know this from experience since I am a Christian. There is no greater feeling knowing that you are saved and have a place in Heaven. 

There is another fulfillment that is lesser than the one mentioned above. This fulfillment is from making some positive impact. If someone makes an impact, then he or she will be more satisfied with his or her life. However, it is dangerous to define your self-worth by impact, because if you do not make the impact that you wanted, you will be left unsatisfied. My philosophy is that one should realize, as Mother Theresa did, that every positive act or contribution to society is like a raindrop in an ocean. Even though the raindrop seems unsubstantial, cumulatively all of the positive acts, all of the raindrops, make a huge contribution to the positive development of society, the world, and brings humanity forward.

Sincerely,
Nathan