Survival -- this is perhaps the most basic drive of every sentient being. To get through the hard times, to see another sunrise, no matter what it takes. I am a survivor, but I have reached a point in my life where I want to do more than just survive. I want to thrive, to live, to know that I can create a joyful and fulfilling life.
Although I was born and raised in Indiana, I did not grow up on a farm. I did not particularly like playing outside as a child, and I was not fond of fresh produce. I was the girl with her nose in a book, the girl with imagination. Looking back I can see that I was dreaming up my future, creating for a place where I could care for other creatures, grow some food, sit around a fire with my family at night and breathe.
Some may argue that complete self-sufficiency may only be attained by living completely off the grid with minimal access to modern technology. Perhaps this is true, but I am not sure that this is my goal. I certainly do not shun technology (I am currently employed by a tech giant), but I am concerned with the extent to which American culture glorifies and relies on technology. When I see people glued to their smartphones while sitting at the dinner table in silence I feel a profound sense of loss. We are losing sight of family and are redefining friendship and community in a technological haze, focusing on ourselves rather than seeing the importance of our relationships with others. I want to live a life that defies this trend.
I have finally reached a point in my life where I can start to incorporate my dreams and ideals into my everyday life, and the truth is that I have only just begun. But then, it really is all about the journey.
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