The progressive nature of life is inevitable. There is an order to things and what we prioritize in our lifetimes matters. The order of magnitude beginning with family and concluding with leisure is in tune with natural law. Animals in the wild take care of their families before they play. Humans, as far as technology has brought our ease of obtaining basic necessities, still tend to negate this natural order. No matter how simple the steps may be to live properly, sometimes we fall astray and find a way to flip this order. 80% pleasure 20% responsibilities. More curls of drinks then free weights. More bags of potato chips than books read. More staring at our phones than playing with our children. This pulpit is a familiar one, but the statistics show we are trending in this fashion.
Family comes first for these reasons. They never leave. They are assigned at birth. At best they love one another unconditionally. At a moments need, they are there no matter what. A beautiful, beautiful aspect of life.
Friends come second for these reasons. They are the family you choose. That choice creates a bond like no other. It is not out of obligation that you unconditionally love a friend. It is out of care, admiration, appreciation, laughter, experiences, trials and tribulations. The CHOICE to love cements a bond.
Service is third for these reasons. Your primary mission in life is to be a legendary family member and friend. If you succeed on that, the rest is bonus time. Serving a purpose is essential to your self respect. Knowing that you are of use and that you contribute to society earns you a place in it. Societal needs are not limited by scope. The minuscule specks and the most grandiose ambitions must be fulfilled. You can serve in many respects or do one thing well, just do. Just serve a purpose.
Leisure is fourth for the following reasons. Leisure is an empty vessel if not shared. Leisure is an empty vessel if not earned. Uncontrolled leisure leads to habits that heed way to demons, to infection of the mind body and or soul. The beauty of leisure is the freeing of ones mind. Of getting in the flow state and loosening tension. Of keeping your balance on kilter. All work and no play makes for a hardened heart, an uptight prick, or an obsessive fanatic. Find your release valve to pressurize properly.
Action Request:
Balancing these four aspects of life will always be crucial. Practice self love if you are lead astray by yourself or by others. You can always tip the scale back towards righteousness, respect, and grace.