Success

My idea of success revolves around three areas. They are diverse and interwoven. I am beginning to see glimpses of achieving parts of them. I will count myself as having reached the pinnacle once they are in my grasp. I will be successful when I achieve spiritually, physically, and monetarily.

The first area of my life that all other achievements rest upon is spiritual. I picture it as the base to all else. In this area I will be uncompromising. I need to be ever growing and drawing closer to my god. I will never attain perfection. I can progress toward greater faith, hope and love. As I do the fruit of the spirit will manifest in my life as love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance. With such I will become ever more useful to my creator. I am a success when I love serve and obey my Lord, and He uses me to meet the needs of His people while spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The next area of my life that I want to achieve in is the physical. When this area is met it is the result of my spiritual health. It also affects and supports my activities for God, for others and for myself. I incorporate my mental and emotional health into this area. It is the totality of my physical being. I can progress towards balanced emotions, clear, positive thinking, and a sound body. I am a success when my emotions, thoughts, and health all support the work and recreation activities I engage in.

The top of my pyramid is monetary success in life. This works in tandem with the other two areas. The money I earn will support me so that I can have proper health care, a good diet, a place to rest, transportation, the opportunities to exercise, and to recreate. All the support the other two parts of the equation. I will be a success if I earn enough money to pay for these and have enough left over to save for the future after tithing and paying taxes.

In conclusion, the definition of a balanced life is that it has my relationship with God as its foundation. This inner experience translates into service to Him and others. Added to it is the maintenance of my physical needs. Furthermore, I attain the monetary support to give me the freedom to pursue both. These elements of surprise will be closer to my grasp as I progress in my journey in college.

By Patrick Rathsack T-45624
VSP D3-8-2up
PO Box 92
Chowcilla, CA 93610