A few reflections to inaugurate 2010:
The Fullness of Life
The measure of a man is best assessed in the sincerity of his struggle to realize his natural potential. For me, this potential is rooted in the development of authentic wisdom, obtained through the joyful pursuit of diverse experiences, meaningful relationships, and new ideas.
Vision
I aspire to be an elderly man who, upon his 70th birthday, can look himself in the mirror free of the sting of regret.
Key Strategies
- Reduce consumption.
- Cultivate serenity.
- Nurture relationships.
- Exhibit insatiable curiosity.
Why Bother?
“See everything, overlook much, change what you can.”
+John XXIII
“The Road goes ever on and on/Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,/And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,/Until it joins some larger way
Where many paths and errands meet./And whither then? I cannot say.”
+ J.R.R. Tolkein, The Hobbit
Roadmap for 2010
- Develop and begin a personal life reading list. [February]
- Return to piano and vocal private training. [March]
- Return to the practice of karate, escrima, and yoga. Begin kendo. [April]
- Get a HAM license. [May]
- Finish transition to full-time self-employment. [Spring]
- Recalibrate spiritually. [Lent/Easter]
- Do a long-distance backcountry hike. [June]
- Achieve divemaster certification. [July]
- Earn USPA class A licensure. [August]
- Attend Wilderness First Responder training. [Autumn]
- Obtain parliamentarian certification. [September]
- Compete in Grand Rapids Marathon. [October]
- Complete novel manuscript. [November]
- Liquidate all remaining personal debts. [December]
The path to excellence begins with a single step.