Saturday, July 19, 2008

The three Imp's

Many times for lent people try to give up something. I typically try to take on a challenge instead. One year I came up with one that I called "the three Imp's". At the time I used this to make myself more aware of my actions– but even today I find myself still using it to analyze how I come across to other people.

I do not want to be Impressive
Many times we like to show off to others. Sometimes this is just to get their attention to focus on yourself– other times it is just to make yourself look better than they are. No matter what the reason, being impressive makes you appear either boastful, or insecure.
I do not want to be Imposing
Forcing someone to do something that you want them to do is not very respectful. So often we want to "change" someone– but we need to realize that change comes from within and we cannot change them by imposing your will on them. Being imposing wastes time because you never accomplish what you want– and wastes energy because no matter what you do, you will never succeed.
…but rather be Imparting.
Being able to "share of myself" is important to me. I would like to be able to impart my knowledge and experiences to others. I know and have experienced a lot in life and would like others to know of my insights and observations.

It is difficult to try and concentrate on the final "Imp" and not fall back on the other two. However, once I was aware of them it made it easier to evaluate my actions and know if I was focusing on being Imparting.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Good post. I was SO like this as a child that I have problems the other direction with your first two "imps." (I love that by the way!) I would rather not share talents or whatever with others for fear of looking vain. And imposing. I can't get over thing I am imposing on people by asking them questions such as "What do you do for a living?" I am trying really hard to get over that one--I know people tend to love to talk about themselves.

Imparting I do have trouble with, until I get to know someone well. Then I do okay. I think I may see a new year's resolution in here somewhere ...

Thanks.

Cajoh said...

I like your take on Imposing— it adds a new dimension that I had not thought of before… thinking that you are being imposing by making someone feel inferior to you.

Unknown said...

That was an excellent post, it deserves a rerun especially today!

Anonymous said...

Hey CaJoh - thanks for the link to this beautiful, yet simple, yet relevant and IMPortant post about Lent!! And just your personal philosophy in general of how to live your life. I will remember this. Thank you...

Lee

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