inspirit

inspirit

F50

How do you view life........

December 03 2013

As we are growing up we are told by our family and our friends that the world is just the way it is, and that your life is just to live your life inside the world. Don't try to bash down walls. Don't try to push boundaries. Try simply to have a nice family life, buy a house, save a little money, retire and die. Just be happy. So, be honest with yourself. How is that working out for you? For me, that point-of-view sucks. That to me is a very limited and wasted life. Life can and should be much broader once you discover one very simple fact, and that is that everything around you that you call "life", all the physical and social constructs that surround you, were made up by people who were probably no smarter than you. And once you know this inalienable truth, it is but a small step to realise you can change change this life, you can influence it, mould it, and build your own version of that which you call a life. But like all things, it comes down to choice. What do you choose? Are you just going to live in this life or, instead, do you choose to embrace it, change it, improve it, and stamp your mark upon it? I do not deny that it is a hard choice. After all, how does somebody know what they want if they haven't seen or experienced it before? True greatness always comes from risking failure, and if you want greatness, then you must also be prepared to risk it all. Personally, I choose to lead a life where I can look back on it and say: "Yes, I did that!". I choose to take a gamble on my own vision rather than conforming to other people's decision. I choose to embrace those little things that truly define a life: the smile to an old man waiting at a bus stop, the courtesy to be civilised here in RHP, or just the moments of pure clarity when I just sit still, chill and scheme up my next thrill. I choose to mix it with the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the trouble-makers, the problem-solvers, the round pegs in the square holes, the ones who see things differently. Why? Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And, where others may see madness, I see genius. Studley

Comments

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Choose not to live the "photocopy" life but rather a life of my own design. I've experienced some amazing highs and some shitty lows. All at my own hands. The shitty experiences have taught me humility and humbleness because I've seen human nature at its best, the great experiences have taught me that's it's easy to fall from a great height and to remember you may not always be on top, experience and appreciate it because everything can and does change in a heartbeat. What's important to me is that at the end of the day I can say I've really lived. I want to have grabbed every experience offered, to have made a difference to a select few and to have been known for the passion I lived my life with. I want my epitaph to say simply "she loved life and it loved her right back" - Posted from rhpmobile

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    The way I was brought up, I believed the world was my oyster and to make of it what I will. This has lead me to have a roller coaster of a life. I've seen and done a lot of things that many people have experienced. I've never understood why people spend their live's making sure they have a good retirement. I prefer to have the experiences now. Then, in my dotage, I can sit in my rocking chair remembering all the stupid stuff I did.

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    then I never listened....I ran away from home when I was seventeen...have lived my life mostly as I have wished...and I live my life with enthusiasm and passion...so much to do...so much to learn...so much to appreciate and be thankful for...

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    You need a good balance... You don't want to be poor when you retire right? My mortgage holds me back.... If I had my way I would go spend another year travelling, maybe do some charity work in Cambodia, etc etc etc. Instead I have to be happy with one or two overseas trips a year. I am making the effort to be sensible. :(

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Quoting 'Meeka100' You need a good balance... You don't want to be poor when you retire right? My mortgage holds me back.... If I had my way I would go spend another year travelling, maybe do some charity work in Cambodia, etc etc etc. Instead I have to be happy with one or two overseas trips a year. I am making the effort to be sensible. :( To work as long as my body and mind allow it. I find the idea of retiring at 65 or 70 strange.

  • On_Safari

    On_Safari

    11 years ago

    ....sometimes a little afraid, sometimes too excited but i can't let fear rule me right? (deeper sigh) I constantly feel like I'm trapped or caged....then once the door is flung open I'm uncertain if I can trust myself most of all....the door has been flung open again......this time I'm gonna try my wings and FLY.... “When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not ready. The challenge will not wait. Life does not look back. A week is more than enough time for us to decide whether or not to accept our destiny.” - Paulo Coelho So I guess I'm heading out into the BIG wild world with the rest of the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently, who aren't overly fond of rules and still buck the status quo. And while some may see me as the crazy one, maybe someone else besides me will see the genius? Maybe I'm not crazy enough to change the world, but then again there's lots of crazy wonderful people out there who do. OR I'm just completely INSANE!!! Thanks for topic Inspirit and Kale..."life coach still required" ~ Indy On Safari - one who knows what happens when you fly to close to the sun and not low enough under the radar trying to have faith that this time might be different xx

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Well yes, you earn money so you can continue on spending it on things you love doing. Well that's me anyway. Ooooh listen to the SINKS talking! LMAO!!!!

  • On_Safari

    On_Safari

    11 years ago

    Isn't doing the same thing over and over again expecting a different result the definition of insanity?!?! I'M DOOMED!!! and I haven't even got my run up and propellor spinning yet

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    When I was growing up, I wanted to be policeman. My folks said"you won't be able to. You've got asthma!" So I became a security guard. When I was a teenager, I loved to swim and received compliments on my technique from my teachers. My folks said"you're not participating in the swimming sports as you can't swim!!" When I was growing up I loved to play cricket. I wasn't any Adam Gilchrist but I enjoyed it. My folks said "I don't know where that oval is, so you're not going." My folks asked me to help them solve their computer issues once.... I attempted to teach them by getting them to answer questions that would allow them to diagnose the problem themselves and give them a method for future reference. "Can't you just fix it for us??" they asked... "Nope sorry I can't as that doesn't fix your problem.....and I doubt it ever will be fixed :D" was my reply. One of the most liberating phrases I've ever used. I still enjoy swimming when I get the chance, and doing most of the things that my folks said I couldn't do out of spite. - Posted from rhpmobile

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    I love life and I do all the things most only think about. I learnt a long time ago I need to experience the things I dream , and I do. My best friends understand that and accept me that way. I don't need their approval nor do I expect them wait for mine. I don't tolerate fools readily or those who can't make a decision, that's wasting my time and yours.. However' if you're honest and up front , you will most probably want to come for the ride... I have goals, and I make sure I tick em off as I go... Jay...

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Seriously. Meeka, sensible is good. But one day I'll set up a hippie commune with "the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the trouble-makers, the problem solvers, the round pegs in square holes, the ones who see things differently". Then I'll feel among my people. (Of course clothes will be optional).

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Life is a funny thing much like humans are interesting creatures them selves? Life can go smoothly for some n come hard for others. It's like our sex lives I feel? It either rains (getting heaps) or it drys up (getting nothing) for me when the luck star shines it brings so much but then the evil light comes to play n it's a friggen wall no matter what way I turn... So I believe life is good with its ups n downs mmm just like sex up n down ;)

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    I think that sounds like the pefect place !! I want to be there. but I don't think society and conformity will except , what you say , other wise WE WOULD ALL LIVE IN NIMBUN!!!! (I wish)

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    I may have a slightly jaded view on life overall, low faith in humans to steer the course of destiny to a healthy outcome, so I tend to focus on things at ground level, at a relational level, on people's humanity, and be warmly entertained by human folly. Therefore I tend to think think most things are arbitrary, and like to entertain possibilities, a bit like sliding doors, and ask myself 'what if' questions tht shift the context of how we live and what the world would be like. For example, what would the world be like if an Earth based religion was the dominant mindset throughout history. For arguements sake, say something like Wicca. What would our architecture & cities look like moulded in harmony with nature? Google Hundertwasser for a peek at this possibility. What would our laws be like? Would there be less focus on materialism and more focus on environmental crime? What would our religious festivals be like? The whole community gets their kit of and dances underneath the stars on the summer solstice? What about modern medicine? Years of research gone into understanding the use and preparation of herbs and natural remedies? What would psychology be like? Less lofty ideals that are hard to attain, and an attempt to embrace the shadow aspects of ourselves and befriend it for personal harmony? What would sexuality be like never having been associated with shame or guilt and embraced as an important and natural expression of self? How would your household run? Would you have a vege patch & chooks to provide your diet of fresh and healthy food and swap produce with your neighbours? I think life is to be lived according to your own ideals. Pave the way for something different if being a sheep isn't your thing. Embrace human diversity and subcultures that think outside the square and are more harmonious with your own ideals. Be unique. Be yourself as much as you are able.

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Now I can live my life as I want it. No more what others want....I say no or yes when I feel like it. No more thinking I offend anyone by saying NO. This is a hard road to walk.....first and specially when you have had children.. You just cant do what you just want...because you have to consider your family. Then things happen and you start questioning what it is you should perform to, then the light went on and you see the road is not so long anymore, so fuck all the "must does" and just be true to yourself. That's how it happened to me. I am totally honest and dont hold back on what I like doing, without hurting anyone. Having friends I can be truthful with and gathering a colorful bunch around me who think outside the square, is living for me. Love life at every second there is. There is so much still to learn and experience, I am open to and no one not my boys or my extended family can stop me. But the most important thing in my life now, is, I will not lie about my life and how I think or feel. who has a problem with that just should stay away from me. Loving and showing love is the essence of my existence.

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    I had been told all my life (by family, friends, school etc) that when I grew up, I'd go to uni, start working in a career based on that degree, find "the one" and settle down and have a mortgage, kids, a dog and 2 cars. The thought of that life never sat well with me. Even when I was 5 years old, I knew I didn't want children, or to remain in the one place for too long. I attempted to live the "normal" life with my ex but I guess we both were unfulfilled by it, I certainly was unfulfilled. I moved from living with parents, to living with partner without having the opportunity to experience things like travel, living alone or in a share situation, making my own decisions and relying on myself. When I moved in with my ex-partner, he came with 2 kids in tow so I had an insta-family that I never really felt accepted into. We had financial troubles because he refused to discuss budgets and financial issues with me (carryover baggage from his previous relationship) and we could never make any plans. He spent all his money on booze and computer gear and I attempted to struggle on with part time work and studying. I even abandoned my goal of furthering my studies beyond undergraduate level, which in turn would shut me out of working in the field I was passionate about. Instead I got a job in sales and hated life for the next 4-5 years. Breaking up and getting away from the "normal" existence was the best thing that happened to me. I have since had the opportunity to meet amazing people from all walks of life (some select ones became lovers). I got a new job in a field related to my studies which I am very passionate about. I have far more love and laughter in my life, am finally recovering financially, enough to start my dream of travelling and a boundless new confidence in life. Abandoning the traditional "Australian dream" has allowed me to see clearly what my own dream life entails, and I'm seeing more and more that it is actually achievable. I'll be happy if at the end of my life, I have albums full of photos from my travels, a "family" of friends and lovers who I've shared fabulous times with, and to leave the world a legacy of lives who have been improved by my help. I don't care if I'm dirt poor, I have no ambitions toward wealth. I'd rather have a life rich in experiences.

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Sounds Scientology :p - Posted from rhpmobile

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    I do like the sound of a commune and commune living. The most people I lived with was 26 people in a three story house in London. That was fun. But my concern is that I am pretty independent so I need my own little house on the commune please. ;-) To be honest I often wonder why society has developed in such a way that we isolate ourselves into small family units. Wouldn't it be easier in groups?

  • inspirit

    inspirit

    11 years ago

    ...we all have. Thank you too everyone for commenting. xxx

  • inspirit

    inspirit

    11 years ago

    This spirited soul will be with you

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    about 5 of my closest girlfriends and their tribes of kids (most of them single mums like me). I remember a thread a while ago ago paintme's commune where all of the forumites volunteered their ideas about their varying roles .... *skips off to search the forums with flowers in her hair*

  • inspirit

    inspirit

    11 years ago

    Quoting 'Meeka100' I do like the sound of a commune and commune living. The most people I lived with was 26 people in a three story house in London. That was fun. But my concern is that I am pretty independent so I need my own little house on the commune please. ;-) To be honest I often wonder why society has developed in such a way that we isolate ourselves into small family units. Wouldn't it be easier in groups? It was the Australian Dream ? Buy the house, have 2.5 kids, look after ourselves only, disinfect everything .........

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    I have lived and worked in both large...everyone had a hut...and small ,everyone had a room in a large house..Buddhist communities...living and working together presents a unique challenge....

  • On_Safari

    On_Safari

    11 years ago

    Quoting 'Gr8whiteUnicorn' I'll be happy if at the end of my life, I have albums full of photos from my travels, a "family" of friends and lovers who I've shared fabulous times with, and to leave the world a legacy of lives who have been improved by my help. I don't care if I'm dirt poor, I have no ambitions toward wealth. I'd rather have a life rich in experiences. Beautiful Gr8WhiteUnicorn and so well said.....awed xx

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    I was taught to have a go. To be fierce and independent. That dreams do come true. That the world is marvellous and life is an adventure. My brother was taught the same things but our lives are completely different. I make brave choices often. I step into uncertainty, trust myself, and just do it. I value experiences dramatically more than I value things. Financial security is important but not the primary driver in my life. I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had and I'm proud of myself for making the most of them. Without doubt my life is founded on the lessons and perspective given to me as I grew up. But it's shape, colour and texture is all of my own doing. Choice is a marvellous thing!

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    ... and some people were born to stand out. The people that are crazy enough to believe that they can change the world are often the ones that do. I too was brought up being told 'that's the way it is' and it frustrated the hell out of me as did the so called ideal of happiness. There is nothing more aggravating to me than people clinging to old habits and belief systems, expecting a change yet continuing to do as they've always done. I've never been one to follow protocol - not even when I met the would be King, much to the shock and the horror of everyone there at the time (although that actually got his attention LoL). Refused to accept several generations of religious and cultural belief systems and broke more than a few family traditions. My inquisitive nature labelled me disruptive at school and rebellious within the family. I know only too well that everything we know and love in life can be change dramatically and be gone in an instant. I believe that our best life lessons are those learnt the hard way - through mistakes. I strongly believe that people, circumstances and events (crisis in the face of adversity for want of a better description) play a huge part in bringing out the best in us giving us the opportunity to live to our full potential in such a way that wouldn't have been considered otherwise. I've always known intuitively what I'm supposed to be doing in this life, struggled with it at times. It's not easy, every now and then I think it's all too hard but then I just remind myself why I'm doing what I'm doing and I'm back on track. To coin a phrase from 50Cent ... "I'll die trying" to bring about positive change in the field of my dreams.

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    What is it you're called to do, if you feel you'd like to share?

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Regrets about life?... some but I take them all as lessons. Some I could have done without and some I wouldn't trade anything in the world for. Have sacrificed 12 years of my life for someone... would I do that again? Yes. Would I do it differently? Absolutely. It was always my choice, I just chose the wrong way to go about it. Now I have my life back I'll be doing everything I can to live it up when I can. So far there are 3 massive experiences to be had before I settle down to the commune life and "lend my manskills to the bunny tribe" as my old boss used to refer to his idyllic escape from society. SG (loin cloth and spear in hand...)

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    It's not something that I make a living from and it is not something that I do at will. Very few people know that I do it so I don't care to share publicly although I'm more than happy to share with you in confidence via message if you like.

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Just 3? Curiouser and curiouser ....

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    3 so far... 2 "extreme" sports and. . . something more intimate. Doesn't mean to say I won't add to the list or that what is big for me is big for another (size only matters if you let it). I love a challenge! If you are up for it you can come along and cheer me on with your pom poms SG

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    I struggle to this day with the choice between conformity and blazing my own trail. My upbringing was such that there was never any inspiration or support for thinking out of the box. Therefore I never really pushed myself. However as I experience new things now, I keep thinking- what next, where to now. I want to try everything whether I think ill like it or not. Just so I can say to myself when I'm old and grey- you mad bugger, is there anything you didn't do? Obviously there are financial restraints and other life obligations but I try to push myself as often as possible.

  • Lovinit28andKC72

    Lovinit28andKC72

    11 years ago

    The greatest fear in the world is the opinions of others, and the moment you are unafraid of the crowd, you are no longer a sheep, you become a lion. A great roar arises in your heart, it's the roar of freedom... This is where I am in my life, but has taken me many years to get there..... She took a deep breath & let it go...

  • RHP

    RHP User

    11 years ago

    Where I grew up you got married young and then settled into the rut of married life. To spice things up, couple would have parties, stick their keys in a bowl and the women would choose some keys and whoever owned them, that's who they went home with for the night. I left there before I got married, though I did get married young. Travelled to NZ with my husband shortly after getting married and did the conservative wife bit and then I read the Women's Room by Marilyn French. Left my husband in NZ and came home and then did what I wanted to do and have been doing it ever since. Like others, I am not driven by accumulating wealth. I am driven by a passion for social justice and the need for sensible change in the world. I enjoy many things I didn't do when I was younger, especially music and art and despite being something of an introvert I love meeting new people. In Darwin I busk regularly and I have a street family, people who stop and talk, dance, sing and sometimes play with me. Some are homeless, some are long grass, some are women and children and there is one special older man who dances and sings and buys me coffee. I love it! Its not what I expected to be doing in Darwin and that's OK. I've educated myself, explored different philosophies, been to pagan festivals where clothing was optional, been to music festivals and sat around the campfire til the sun rose, travelled abroad numerous times and everywhere I've been, Ive made awesome friends who make a difference to my life and I to theirs. I've twice had the deposit for a house and both times chose to do something else. Sometimes I think that was silly but overall, I've had and am still having a bloody good life. Nice topic Inspirit.

  • PL1963

    PL1963

    11 years ago

    Hi Kiwibred, We chatted a while back, love your writing in here, especially the quote at the end. I'm 50, I wasted 35yrs doing the right things by society, and it got me "shit". I now listen to rap music and do what I want, people say Eminem can't sing, maybe so, but he entertains with his stories on life. I now listen to all words because I hear them, most people don't want hear what's goin' on, so they just switch off to normality. I also listen to Dylan, Springstein, Cocker they are singin' the same words but to different music, they were often shun to. Normallity fucks this world. Believe in ya', maybe one day we can meet. Cheers Paul.