Chris Writing Anything

What motivates you?

You know, it seems we all need motivation…a kick in the pants. But, what drives us? Are our ultimate desires universal, or are our wants very unique. I think, for me, my drive is derived from a rather curious source.

Once, a long time ago, I believed that what motivated me, and yes, you can laugh if you want, but I thought my actions were spurred by the want of a significant other. Yes, I guess you could say, I was motivated by the opposite sex…or so I thought

Then, in a rather muddled revelation, I was hit with the notion that I just wanted acceptance. I mean, after all, human beings are social creatures, so that didn’t seem too off the mark. I mean, why did I strive to have a family? Was it to be like everyone else?…I didn’t know.

Then, a few years back, I remembered something my father told me. I absolutely hated him for saying it, because life should be more…no, mankind should be more. Now I know, I misunderstood his sentiment.

His statement was “Chris, life is a game.” Today, as I know what motivates me, I realize it is. There are people with stacked decks, there are cheaters and there are those who are supposed to ensure the game is played fairly.

What does that have to do with my father’s advice. You’re going to hate me for saying it, because, I assure you, you’ll misunderstand my intentions. But, anyways, hear it goes…big confession…I want to win.

I know, that sounds horrible…until you fully understand my thoughts. What I mean is, I want to be the best human I can be. I don’t want to be the best human being ever. The Mother Theresas can have their time in the sun. I simply want to be the best version of me that I can be.

If I can be smarter, and I see a need for the knowledge, I’ll take time and learn. If I possess a behavior that might bother others, I’ll work to correct it. If I feel, because of personal experience, that I have helpful advice, I’ll earnestly pass it along. So on, and so forth.

However, that doesn’t mean I won’t fight those that try to derail me. That’s where the game comes into play. Humans can be jealous. Humans can be vicious. I’d like to say the Earth is one harmonious sphere, but we all know that’s far from the truth.

What my dad was trying to tell me that day, and I know it now, is that we have to fight for what is right…and that means we have to play the game. And if or when we reach our golden years, and we’re a sketch image of the person we dreamed we’d be, then, well, if our goals were altruistic, we won the game!

Have an excellent day!