Live well enough to horrify a few and inspire many
-Clarissa Pinkola Estes
One of the simplest definitions of what it means to live well is found, I believe, in Joseph Campbell’s invitation to “follow your bliss”. This means to live an authentic life, the life you were meant to live, to pursue that which brings you joy, peace, and a sense of rightness.
Take a moment and look at the many areas of your life: dreams and aspirations, career, relationships, health, fitness and spiritual and emotional life. Are you living well in each of these areas? If the answer is no, then why not? Sit with this question for a while.
Perhaps, as Estes’ quotation posits, we are afraid of horrifying a few. We don’t want to rock the boat and think somehow that conforming to the wishes and desires of society, our families or religions is much easier, safer. But is it? Really?
To risk not pursuing one’s bliss is far more horrifying than horrifying a few. And actually, when we dare to defy conventions and speak our voice, sing our song, dance our dance, we inspire others to live well and to follow their bliss.
Don’t be satisfied with the goals and dreams of others. Seek not to horrify, nor refrain from horrifying. Simply allow everything in your life to embrace your personal truth.
Tara Zafft, Ph.D. 