Weapons of Mass Distraction

Anything that draws one away from the business of living and being worthy ? such as drugs, alcohol, distractions of all descriptions, and sleep when the intent is oblivion, not to mention the idea of killing oneself ? is a means of escaping, a little death, and death itself is the ultimate escape.

Anything can be a means of avoiding problems. The means is variable; the end is immutable. Escapism is what it is whichever form it assumes and all manner of distractions ? including serious occupations that act as diversions ? can serve its purpose. Physically, these distractions may be healthier than drugs and alcohol; mentally, however, they are equally unhealthy if abused ? that is, used to the point of leaving the problems indefinitely unsolved. In that case, precious time one could spend working toward a solution is persistently wasted or wrongly utilized.

'Indefinitely' and 'persistently' are the operative words here. It is good practice to take one's mind off things now and then. Likewise, an occasional break from work is a sensible interlude of relaxation where one recharges one's batteries in preparation for another period of exertion.

This good practice turns bad when it oversteps the mark and falls into the trap of escapism. Happiness is then nothing but a bitter dream, whose bitterness is diluted with various evasions. Dignity and joy are desired, not felt; their absence is a crying shame. We humans have problem-solving abilities that enable us to achieve fulfillment within the confines of our reality, unless these confines are so narrow that they exclude every possibility of contentment. At this rare and wretched extremity, there is only room for a single pleasant emotion: serenity, through acceptance.

Laurent Grenier's writing career spans over twenty years. During this time he has broadened and deepened his worldview, by dint of much reflection and study, and in the end has crafted "A Reason for Living," his best work to date.

Official web site: http://laurentgrenier.com/ARFL.html

Have You Voted Today

Huh? You're probably wondering when this article was written, and... Read More

Case Closed

Direct Answers - Column for the week of October 27,... Read More

Giving Life Meaning

Have you thought about what you want people to say... Read More

Take Out Time -- To Just Be Thankful

While sitting here tonight, watching the conclusion of "There Are... Read More

Super Powers

It is fun to watch movies of those with super... Read More

Labor That Works Miracles

(excerpted from The Challenge to Succeed series)Two thousand years ago... Read More

Life Lessons I Learned from My Cat

Even if you are not a cat person, bear with... Read More

Overcoming Fear of Terrorism

This week I did a radical thing. I bought a... Read More

Make A Difference - Just Go Make A Difference!

Three Words That Can Help Us Live Exceptional LivesCertain words... Read More

Learn to Deal in Challenges

(Excerpted from the 2004 Jim Rohn Weekend Leadership Event)To really... Read More

The Meaning of Life

Life ?.. Indeed is full of learning's, experiences, facts and... Read More

Facing the Enemies Within

We are not born with courage, but neither are we... Read More

My Journey

I believe it's important for you to develop a mission... Read More

Changing the World... One Book at a Time

Ever read a book that's changed your life? Most of... Read More

A Childs Plight

In the streets of Bogotá, a child - named Simon*... Read More

Life is Art

In my years teaching people to be successful, I have... Read More

A Brick Wall

Direct Answers - Column for the week of August 18,... Read More

Everyone Has Been Hurt..... Part 5

Continued...About a year later I met my husband. I met... Read More

Its The Little Things That Count

Have you ever been in the situation where you have... Read More

Without Love

Direct Answers - Column for the week of December 30,... Read More

Random Thoughts on Living Your Best Life

More things I've noticed along the way:* Our son's birthday... Read More

How to Pray on Water! Announcing Life-Changing Bible Code - Discover Amazing Water Scriptures!

Water is the source of life, yet so few of... Read More

It Only Takes a Spark - Pass It On

Great inspiring people have influenced people in every area of... Read More

Withstand the Test of Time

As I drove home from work late one wintry afternoon,... Read More

Self Esteem - What It Really Is and How to Raise It

Self esteem.Now there's a well used and little understood term.... Read More