DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE
The last time I approached this topic, I spoke about using the past from a writer’s perspective. This still remains true, but things are a little different this year. Here are my thoughts from last year.
Sometimes, it seems like my characters learn from my triumphs and follies. I try not to push my opinions on the characters I create. I try to let them live their own lives independently. To be free of my prejudices, quirks, and code. Honestly, I think there is a part of us in the characters we create, whether it’s the protagonist, antagonist, or supporting character. This upsets me now and again because I try so hard not to do this. It is an unrealistic endeavor, perhaps, but one I need to work towards. I think of this when frustration gets the better of me.
“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.”
— W.B. Yeats
I think about what Yeats is talking about, more precisely, what it means to me and how it can be applied. As I age, I repeatedly find that my opinion about certain things has changed drastically. I’m not a different person at the core, but I have definitely evolved. Whether better or worse, it is too early to say. I think that determination is what’s important. Yet, awareness of the evolution and acceptance are crucial for growth and understanding.
This quote comes to mind when thinking about the past or the future.
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.”
— Albert Einstein
I love this quote because life lessons shape our current lives, and I hope we can pass on the wisdom. I suppose it’s a part of our legacy—the things we have discovered along the way. Some may say it’s our duty to share this wisdom. I see the truth in that opinion. We watch others stumble about trying to accomplish something, and we have a different approach to assist them in completing their task. However, let’s take a moment to consider this: each person’s path to personal growth is, in fact, personal. We can advise them, not lead them. Also, Buddha advises us on the following:
“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.”
— Buddha
If we spend too much time passing on the wisdom of our lessons learned, we are trying to fulfill our dreams of a brighter future—not only for ourselves but also for the person we pass on the knowledge to. By doing so, we aren’t concentrating on the most important period: the present.
My final thoughts: Our past, present, and future are contained in each breath. Our past has made us the people we are in this moment. It lays the foundation for the pathway of our future. Every breath is the catalyst for our evolution; don’t fight it. Remember, the difference between life and death is a single breath; don’t waste it.
Excuse me while I get coffee and an ice cream sandwich because ice cream solves everything.
Memoirs of Madness 