Monday, August 24, 2009

Epiphany in the Gloaming


There's something majestic about being up high with a 360 degree view of an entire city; especially at dusk, when the sky explodes with color and reminds you that you're alive.

If you're someone like me, you yearn for these moments, and when you experience them, you hold on to them for a long time afterwards; sometimes, even for the rest of your life. In times of trouble or emotionally trying times, you might even experience a moment of clarity or some kind of epiphany, if you're lucky enough.

I've had a few epiphanies in my life. One of them occurred around the time I took the photo above. Some time has passed, but today I was reflecting on the moment of clarity I had on that day.

You see...

Most people feel a need to be accepted. We want to feel like we belong, like we fit in; and often we conform to accepted norms in order for that be a reality. The need to fit in is a conditioned survival impulse, and yes, it feels good to be accepted; but when this impulse conflicts with the need to follow your heart, there is really only one choice.

And my epiphany from that day is this: people will inevitably make choices they regret, but following your heart will never be one of them.

4 comments:

  1. Wow.
    Love your post. Love the photo. Love the quote at the end.
    I think I may use that. Is that okay?
    :-)

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  2. Sure, you can use it if you like. Will is my 'pen name,' but if you'd like to use my real name, let me know ;oD

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  3. Nice. Wish I had some epiphanies like yours in this post; maybe my life would be less stressful and more carefree.

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  4. @ladytruth: well, hopefully you will. not that they make life any easier--you come to peace with one thing, and life will quickly replace that problem/concern with another one! i keep hearing that the journey is the reward. i'm hoping that's true and waiting for the day i'm able to look in the rearview mirror and agree.

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