Goldilocks certainly knows what moderation is! (courtesy of E-books)
We are living in extreme times. And this calls for extreme measures.
We are extremely hard working. With hot desks, blackberries and mobile offices, we can work anywhere we want, 24/7, on any continent.
We are extremely well connected. In time, every single important person can be reached via our smartphones through voice, text, video, through myriad platforms. Networking isn’t enough – we’re now talking about extreme networking.
We are extremely entertained. An endless pipeline of movies, music, concerts, plays, exhibitions games, comics, stories, jokes, and more await us on every possible stage, gallery or screen. Huge, big, medium or small.
We are extremely clever and knowledgeable. Every byte of data, morsel of knowledge, and gem of wisdom is piped into our heads. The proportion of intellectuals – be they actual or keyboard warriors – have escalated significantly.
We are extremely sporty and fit. Well, at least some of us are. Marathons aren’t enough. We now need ultra-marathons, adventure expeditions and climbs up Mount Everest that stretch the limits of human physicality and imagination.
We are extremely extremely busy. Every hour and every minute is packed with activities. With so much work to do, so many people to meet, so many movies and concerts to catch, and so many miles to cover, time really isn’t on our side.
The question is this. While we’re pursuing our extreme lifestyles, some things got to give.
Intimate conversations with the family. Casual strolls in the park. Long breakfasts with loved ones. Reminiscences about the silly things you did as a kid. Reflections on how goofy you were as a teenager. Hiding mischievously from your family members and giving them a “scare”.
In our extreme chase for the highest, strongest, smartest and best, we have forgotten how to play. Sleep isn’t a necessity but a luxury. Even photography – something we used to do to capture memories – have become an extreme activity.
While we pursue our achievement oriented lifestyles, let us remember to take a moment (or 10) to smell the flowers. Take the time to slow down, unwind and relax. Breathe deeply, close your eyes, and empty your minds.
See the world with different lenses. Savour the moment. Feel the breeze rushing through your hair. Let your mind wander.
It is ok to wake up later in bed. It is ok to drop ball (at least occasionally). It is ok to have an “off” day in your calendar.
Forget about the 5 Cs. Embrace the 6 Rs instead.
Rest. Relax. Reflect. Renew. Refresh. Rejuvenate.
Remember this. We’re not rats running in a treadmill. Neither are we extremists.
Maybe we could all learn a thing or two from Goldilocks? After all, she knew the value of moderation!
Let me end with this quote from Benjamin Disraeli:
“Moderation is the centre wherein all philosophies, both human and divine, meet.”
Courtesy of zenplicity.org
