Curve Balls

In our daily struggles to chase the things that we think will make our lives more complete and perfect, we sometimes forget that life is inherently imperfect. While we often envy those around us that we think is living the perfect life, how many of such targets of admiration is indeed doing so? Even in the highly unlikely probability that one is completely satisfied with the life he/she is living thus far, the chances of such bliss continuing quickly changes from improbable to impossible. If the final goal of our endeavors is but an impossible dream, what is the point of pursuing it anyway? What are we really striving for?

This post serves as a reminder to myself and all the rest out there that is chasing the dream of a more perfect existence. Life will always throw you all kinds of curve balls. Just when we think we have it all figured out and start making our 3/5/10 year plans, life will turn round to bite you in the ass and throw all the elaborate planning into chaos and disrepair. It is not to say that we should stop preparing for our future and leave everything to the unfaithful hands of fate. It is just that as we go forth in life to prepare, plan and strive for a better future, we must never forget the life is really about the journey instead of the destination. It may seem like a very clique thing to say but I think at the end of it all, when we look back at the existence we have had in the short time on this planet, what really matters the most will not be the amount of possessions or prestige we have accumulated but the experiences and relationships we have gathered in our time.

I know of some people that have become deeply unsatisfied and unhappy in this journey of life. The frustration and anger is borne out from the elusiveness of that sought-after end goal. It is understandable but it would be such a waste if one has forgotten about the value of the journey and neglected to savor the adventure. The end goal is what it is all about, regardless of how distant it is. Energy is wasted in venting the anger and frustration. The negative vibes and resentment hurts and infects all around. Then there are others that are primed for the perfect life. Everything seems to pan out exactly the way they wanted to. Suddenly a curve ball is thrown in their direction and everything goes awry. All the planning and industry seems to be in vain and the curve ball has reduced everything back to square one. Although standing at the opposite ends of the spectrum of life, they are connected by the thread of its imperfectness. The way to move on is to take what life deals on the chin and stride on bravely into a new tomorrow, undaunted by the obstacles of today. It is better to have tried and failed then to have given up before starting. Despite the pain and agony of today, take comfort in that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Your journey may be tougher but your life is also richer and at the end of the day, you will look back at your battle scars and feel the pride for having fought and won. I pray for myself, and all the others struggling with life's curve balls, a stronger will and a more foolhardy belief in the beauty of life's journey.