re: Horses for Courses

jointer — Wed, 13 Sep 2006 08:07:24 GMT

Hmmm! If that is your impression Teri then I have seriously missed the mark. If you knew me personally you would know that the opposite is true. I always encourage people to achieve their potential and would do whatever I could to assist if asked.

The point here is not one of trying or not trying but recognizing where one's 'place' is. It is neither simple nor easy to reach or accept that realization. I have seen many unhappy people over my career because they were chasing the 'wrong dream'.

There are many reasons why we feel compelled to keep pushing ourselves and going forward; social, economic, personal, professional. There is absolutely nothing wrong with ambition. It is the motivator which keeps giving us a new target to aim for. However, misdirected or unrealistic ambition can only lead to disappointment and misery.

Some of the same unhappy people that I mentioned above became totally different when they identified and accepted their role in life. That is the point that I was trying to make. It is rare as individuals that we can see 'the wood for the trees'. That usually falls to an observer(s) whether it be a trusted friend or a professional. Even if we get good advice we may not yet have reached a point of maturity where we are able to accept it.

It has to be one of the hardest things in life to accept that perhaps we are not destined for our ambitions. Those who truly accept it and focus on those things where they excel ultimately find fulfilment both personally and professionaly. Those who stubbornly refuse to accept their fate usually end up being bitter and resentful. They look at others and are convinced that they should be 'there' also.

We all know that life isn't fair so therefore there will be some true injustices. The 'climbers' of this world will do whatever it takes to 'get there' often at the expense of others. If that is someones road to contentment then it is unfortunate. However, my experience has also taught me that eventually such people often ultimately are seen for what they are.

Hopefully I have now given sufficient clarification to show you my intent. I would never, ever excuse someone for not giving their best anymore than I would excuse myself!

Cheers
Graham J.

re: Horses for Courses

Teri — Sat, 09 Sep 2006 21:24:27 GMT

Is this an excuse for not trying?