A nine-year-old caught my ear. Sheree, a competitor in the AAU National Junior Olympics, was quoted in the local paper, saying she runs for “something bigger than me.” Her motivation? To represent her “family, coaches, and community.” It makes a person think, Who do I run for?
Today mental health is reached through self-examination. We all work hard to become our best selves. We look for what to change in our mental habits, and we work to value who we are. I am worthy. I am powerful. Belief in self is the guidepost.
The Sheree perspective turns the camera lens outward. What if I were to find my greatest satisfaction by striving for my clan, my posse? Then joy, peace, nirvana and happiness would come through my accomplishments as part of “something bigger than me.”
In that scenario I must still do right and eschew wrong. I must still give my all to the task at hand. But the value that comes from doing so is no longer just personal satisfaction. It is that and more. There is now a dose of pride in those I am championing: family or community, sports team or work team.
Each goal I accomplish belongs to the whole posse. We are stronger. With the Sheree lens I will also automatically tune in to the accomplishments of others on the team. We are stronger through their efforts and through mine.
Yes, I think I will join Sheree’s world view. Life is better when it is bigger than me.
Your fresh perspectives always leave me thinking.