Self-Reflections: Why I Write
Some might wrongly assume that I write these articles from a place of moral superiority; that I’m looking down at those around me as lesser beings who need to be lead in the right direction to find salvation. This, however, cannot be further from the truth. You see, in reality, I’m writing these articles directed at the “other me”. The part of me that represents all the parts of myself that I don’t like; the cowardice, laziness, addiction, perfectionism, selfishness, and so, so many more weaknesses that I possess. In reality, I’m not directing those words to you, the reader, I’m directing them towards myself, hammering home the ideas I’ve learned.
Honestly, I share these articles with the public in the hopes that anyone who has gone through similar struggles can see they’re not alone. For those who are currently undergoing them to see that there’s a way out. And for those who have yet to undergo them to spot the signs early and avoid disaster.
Some people may be turned away from these articles because the idea of “philosophy” has a boring, dusty, snobby connotation to it. The process seems long, arduous, and tiresome in the world we live in of instant-gratification, desires, greed, and gluttony. Gone are the days of self-reflection, moral integrity, and virtuous character. Why look within ourselves and fix the deep-rooted problems when there’s a whole world out there that can bring us instant relief, however fleetingly?
The society we live in is meant to keep us dependant on the small drips of temporary joy we receive from all the mind-numbing, hollow, nutrient-lacking pleasures that are constantly bombarding us at every turn. Drugs, alcohol, sex, money, cars, clothes, video games, and so much more. These are all comparable to dessert; they might be delicious and enjoyable in the moment, but you can’t live off them. Eventually, you’ll be left feeling sick, weak, tired, and nasty.
The deeper things in life, however, philosophy, religion (and I mean The Truth, not that distorted garbage that’s meant to sap you dry of your money), and science, will bring true meaning to one’s life. This Truth can be compared to a nice filling meal. The type of meal that after you’ve finished leaves you feeling full, lively, strong, and retains a big smile on your face.
When you’ve finally found your Truth, you’ll find that you don’t need these distractions anymore to feel happy. You don’t need drugs, sex, money, video games, etc. to feel great about yourself. You’ll start desiring to partake in more fulfilling, satisfying, and up-building activities. Reading, writing, drawing, exercising, and the like will start to feel more enjoyable. You’ll be drawn to those things which make you a better person.
As I’ve begun exercising and journaling/writing more regularly I’ve become less satisfied with watching shows that have little value or playing the video games I grew up with. Instead, I now look forward to exercising each day, I am excited to write about my next topic, and my fears and anxieties shrivel up. This doesn’t mean I’m completely fixed, I don’t think I ever will be in this system, but I can at least embrace the broken parts, fill them with gold, and use them to teach others.
