Maturity calls for us to stand on our own two feet. But this does not mean we do life alone. In fact, any notion of being completely independent is an illusion. We need each other in countless ways throughout life.
Certainly, there’s a time and place to be our own man and to make our one of a kind contribution to the world.
We have a uniqueness all our own. And it’s our responsibility to cultivate this strength for good. We neglect this responsibility when we simply blend in and conform to the status quo around us.
But our uniqueness doesn’t make us completely separate from each other.
There’s still one breath that connects us all.
Perhaps this is similar to individuals playing together on the same team. While each has a unique role to play, they remain dependent on each other to move the ball down the field.
Interdependence is needed – which includes all those off the field as well that contribute to make the game a reality.
This is true for us also. We’re connected to countless others even as we might work alone on our project.
For instance, we might never meet those who grew the beans for our morning cup of coffee or the ones who put together all the tiny pieces for our various devices.
Yet we’re connected and their work allows us to focus on ours.
Remembering this connection reminds us to stay humble and generous.
As others contribute and allow us to live lives to the full, so we are to contribute and offer ourselves to others. This is the least we can do.
Stand on your own two feet, but remember your life remains interconnected with others. You need them and they need you.
Photo by Andriyko Podilnyk on Unsplash
