Over the last four years or so, I’ve had to do some deep soul searching regarding my human ego, nature, spiritual matters, the criminal justice system, media, social media, what’s a lie and what’s a truth, to which profession/family/state/country/world do we belong, and what makes friends real. I’ve thought about whether some of the actions I’ve taken may not have helped the way I intended, and harms that I’ve intended have sometimes helped in unforeseen ways. Most importantly, I’ve had to find a way to transcend my immediate surroundings in a way that does not include mood- and mind-altering substances, so that I can be present, fulfill my life’s purpose, and enjoy this life for which I am certain I volunteered. I’m digging deep for the infinite wellspring of love, instead of wallowing in shallow mud puddles of hate and judgment. What seems to help is humor, tolerence, and patience, something short in supply as I hit my various 12 step -determined bottoms, in various predictable cycles of despair. I’m climbing back up, and taking a road less traveled this time. This road includes sharing and relying on others, not exactly my past preferred method of operation. But since going it alone against the world didn’t work in the past, it seems timely to just open up and let everyone in. Some people won’t like what I write, some people will like what I write too much, and I’ll love all of them. I’ll like what I write, and that’s good enough. So here’s to those of us who transcend it all, looking at it all from far, far above. I’m going to live as if it really matters, knowing it really doesn’t matter at all. If that sounds good, come along, we’ll keep each other good company along our heros’ journeys.
It is not society that is to guide and save the creative hero, but precisely the reverse – Joseph Campbell
Transcendental Texan 