Not all of us
are here to be a success
or to be satisfied.
Some of us are here
simply to be an example.
A reference point
for others to follow.
Or not follow.
Your exemplary
or loathsome life
is your purpose.
Which is why it seems
to flow with ease.
Or disease.
You are a guidepost
in what to do or not do.
Nothing more, nothing less.
Trail Wood,
1/7
The Diverse Roles in the Tapestry of Existence
We ponder the notion that not everyone’s purpose is rooted in personal success or satisfaction. Instead, some individuals serve as examples or guideposts, offering reference points for others in the journey of life. This perspective broadens the understanding of purpose and the roles we play in the collective human experience.
Existence Beyond Success and Satisfaction
The idea that some of us are not here to achieve traditional notions of success or personal fulfillment challenges the conventional narrative. It suggests that our lives can have significance and purpose even if they don’t align with societal benchmarks of achievement or contentment.
The Role of Exemplars and Contrasts
The concept of serving as a reference point – either as an exemplary or loathsome example – highlights the diversity of roles we play in influencing others. Whether through inspiring or cautionary tales, our lives contribute to the collective wisdom of humanity. This diversity in roles emphasizes that every life, regardless of its outward appearance of success or failure, has intrinsic value.
Ease or Disease in Life’s Flow
The mention of life flowing with ‘ease’ or ‘disease’ points to the natural rhythm of existence, which varies greatly among individuals. For some, life unfolds smoothly, serving as a model of what to aspire to. For others, life is fraught with challenges, serving as a warning or lesson. Both experiences are integral in the grand schema of life, offering varied insights and perspectives.
Guideposts in the Human Journey
Viewing ourselves as guideposts in what to do or not do adds a layer of purpose to our actions and choices. It underscores that our lives, regardless of how we judge them, provide valuable lessons to others. This role as a guidepost emphasizes the interconnectedness of human experiences and the shared learning that occurs within it.
Summary
We explore the idea that our purpose in life may not always be about personal success or satisfaction, but rather serving as examples or guideposts for others. This perspective acknowledges the diverse roles we play in the collective human experience and the value of every life as a source of learning and reference.
Glossarium
- Exemplar Role: Serving as a model or example for others to follow.
- Guidepost in Life: Acting as a marker or indicator that provides direction or lessons to others.
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
A Poem of Life’s Diverse Roles
In the cosmic dance, we find our place,
Not all in stride, not all in grace,
Some to succeed, some to embrace,
The role of examples in life’s vast space.
Some as beacons, shining bright,
Others as warnings, in the night,
Each life a story, a unique sight,
Guiding, teaching, wrong or right.
Ease or disease, in life’s grand flow,
Each path distinct, each personal show,
In the choices we make, the seeds we sow,
We guide, we lead, in the light we glow.
Guideposts we are, in the human quest,
In what to do, in what to detest,
In our living, in our zest,
We are but markers, in life’s grand test.
We invite you to share your thoughts on the diverse roles we play in life and how you perceive your own journey in contributing to the collective human experience.
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