To some, it’s a statement of authenticity. They’re tired of everybody telling them what to do, and want the freedom to be themselves. This was a big issue with me in my 20’s and early 30’s, and I certainly understand. It especially resonates in that way with me as the baby of the family. It seems that everybody has been in authority over my for my entire life, and I had to push a little harder and constantly remind people that I’m a capable adult with a mind and a will of my own.
To some it’s a statement of rebellion. I remember a line from Dazed and Confused that’s stuck with me for my entire adult life: “the older you get, the more rules they’re gonna try to make you follow.” There’s truth in that. There are some people who can’t win, and they get tired of being judged and deemed unworthy because who and what they are isn’t acceptable to the cliques around them. This dismisses the cliques and empowers individuals to make choices true to their calling. And really, I see the point because it is juvenile. It’s shameful to see adults behaving like middle school children and thinking that they’re being clever and professional.
To some, it’s a reminder to return to your purpose. Humans are easily distracted. If we don’t get distracted by something shiny and new, then we get burned out stagnation or slow progress, and fall into “maintenance routines” of getting by in daily life. This quote is a great reminder that building something takes time and consistent effort, which means you have to keep at it, every day, and never give up. It reminds us not to get discouraged by failure, slow progress, or what others think about what you’re doing. Keep working, don’t give up, and keep the faith.
And this is where this statement finds me: as an encouragement to keep the faith in building my dreams for this season of life, and not to give up despite discouragement. This quote made me realize that life moves in seasons, and I need to accept, embrace, and work with the season that I’m in. If I remain true and faithful, then the pursuit of my dreams will bring the right people with the correct connections to me. It’s not about saying “to hell with people.” Rather, it’s about giving yourself the space to find the right things and people in your life for right now.
I see why this quote is popular. It can mean many things, all of them inspiring. What does it mean to you?
That’s all today. Take care, and have a great week.
Bye!