Goals

It is better not to set goals

But to experience life as it unfolds

But that is not the way of the world

Most are not brave enough just to let life be life

So we set goals knowing that the attainment

Will make us happy, but they never do

Whether they are achieved or not

The empty feeling remains

So we set another goal

And go round again

Spiritual goals, material goals

Make no difference

One seems loftier that the other

But both based, on concepts have no real substance

The Sage accepts his life as it unfolds knowing

That in every triumph there is tragedy, in every agony an ecstasy.

And as such is a field enlivened by the rain

Even when it comes as flood tide

11/6/2009 2:59 PM

Comments: 10

Barbara H. Nov 6, 2009, 3:18pm EST

Just BEING is indeed accepted by the sage. But that takes traveling through age and we have much to do and miles to go before we sleep.
You share the wonderful perspective of the ideal.

John Doyle Nov 6, 2009, 3:23pm EST

Perhaps the sage has learned to deal with "issues" as they occur not worrying about them in advance or replaying them after they are past. The venue of the Sage is NOW

Barbara H. Nov 6, 2009, 3:27pm EST

You are right! The worrying part is of of no use.

vivi emerson Nov 6, 2009, 3:44pm EST

Humans are so unique in the amount of time spent not in the now. Planning, regretting. But I think that I disagree that it bad to set goals. Balance, for me, is important. It is important to work towards achievements, but to experience life as it unfolds. Your words there are very true to me. I have experienced life at both extremes and, honestly, preferred the overly goal oriented to the let life happen extreme. It was easier to move on from! I got more done.

But, having practiced both I am better able to appreciate the journey and the reward.

Good thoughts and write, John.

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Adrian Eve Revenaugh Nov 6, 2009, 4:02pm EST

Well examined from both sides.

Within lies the middle of the road. This the sage knows best.

The Surreal Circus

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Georgiana S. Nov 6, 2009, 7:02pm EST

Good things come to those who wait. I dislike making plans, You always get disappointed, But surprises abound when you let go and let the Universe roll the dice

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Ruth MacGill Nov 6, 2009, 7:46pm EST

Georgiana - Don't count on it! Those golden years can turn to lead.

John - you have led me to so deep a place, it's gloomy down here. Maybe we shouldn't dream. If you expect nothing, that is probably what you will get.

John Doyle Nov 6, 2009, 10:51pm EST

Ruth, I didn't say that. I said don't set specific goals that is what leads to disappointment. Georgiana is right. But you do have a choice. You can believe in a universe of abundance or a universe of scarcity

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