A few thoughts on human nature

[vander]

1.It's human nature to get lost in the present and to falsely assume that tomorrow will be an extension of today. Tomorrow just like human nature is a mystery. Influenced by forces too complex and difficult to discern. So use today to prepare yourself for tomorrow's evils, even if the ships are high, and the weather is clear. Think of tomorrow with hope for the better, especially when you find yourself right in the middle of a personal hell.

2.Even the darkest corners of human nature lose their power when frequently observed and studied under the light of self-awareness. Being aware of how evil you can be is the first step to keeping the dark side where it belongs. In the dark.

3.Human nature is about intent and motivations. The way to study one's motivations is not by listening to words, but by listening to that which is not communicated verbally, as there is much more truth to be heard from an involuntary action/behavior. Understand the story the mouth chooses not to tell, and you understand a person's true nature. This is true even when the person you have under a microscope is no one other than yourself.

4.Having your nature under control is as important as life itself, as if you let it control you, you'll go through life like a slave of your pre-dispositions. Being your best or worst self will be a random occurrence like the weather: good today, bad tomorrow with no rhyme or reason.

5.At the end of the day human nature is not a straightjacket. Sure it will nudge you to certain things while moving you away from others, but you are the ultimate master. You always have the final say. The ability to go against one's nature is what makes us human as opposed to animals who are mostly driven by instinct. So, to blame all your shortcomings on human nature is to deny your humanity.

 

What do you think?

[snowyowl]

@vander thank you. The present moment is perfect and complete, but prepare for the morrow, as God helps those who help themselves. I once heard an old Dutch proverb along the lines of, God helps the sailor but he must steer the boat himself