When you reach the top, keep climbing
Wednesday, June 25th, 2008I shared this Zen aphorism with the kids the other day. We were discussing sitting back on ones laurels, not putting too much effort in, being content to just drift - I should mention here that I have a teenager, and despite having been told for years (13 to be precise) that the teenage years are tough - for all concerned - they have indeed taken us somewhat aback. It is mainly this laid-back, so-what, moody attitude. The seeming lack of ambition, drive or energy. So we are currently on a campaign to go beyond the summit and we need all the motivational assistance we can get. I have found that my instinct for becoming my son’s friend works best - I have learnt to keep quiet (mostly) when his attitude stuns me. And I have found that it is for me, not him, to aim higher than the highest peak - from there I will be able to reach down and pull him up. Not an easy thing to do but then all worth while challenges have their moments!
