Discontent

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I am very thankful for the many blessings in my life. I have a roof over my head, food on the table, great kids, health, education, and a wife who loves me. In a world where so many have so little, it can come across as very selfish for not being content with my life. As my wife has previously asked in so many words, “why can’t you be happy with what you have?” For me, happiness and contentment are not the same. To be content is to be satisfied, which I envision as a stationary place. Life is a continual journey and to accept any momentary place as the goal is inconsistent with the very idea of a journey built on self-discovery, personal growth and inspiration. I can be happy during this journey, but I don’t have to be content at the same time.

Oscar Wilde once said, “discontent is the first step in the progress of a man (and a nation). Wilde’s statement frames discontent in a positive light, a catalyst to one’s growth and progress. For many men of my ilk, our continued happiness is predicated on our efforts to constantly grow personally and professionally as we search for continued inspiration. Our passion is the fuel that drives this journey, not to mention a healthy dose of discontent. For that I make no apologies. So the journey continues.