Unpacking a wish
I have often heard the saying “be careful what you wish for”. Tales abound of folks who expend copious amounts of energy and determination in aiming to achieve a specific goal, only to find out that it doesn’t give them the fulfilment they crave for in reality.
One can dream and imagine that the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. Climbing over that fence might not be impossible, but when one engages in the act, it is not unusual to find the process uncomfortable and in some cases, possibly degrading.
Drawing inspiration from sights, sounds, colours, textures, or aromas that we notice outside of our regular peripheries produces different results. When some of us complain about “cultural appropriation”, it is easy to overlook another saying – “imitation is the best form of flattery”, for example.
Several times when I’ve made an effort to climb over a fence, I have experienced feelings of being slighted by those I encountered on the other side. I don’t remember the grass being any greener in those situations than on the land I journeyed from.
I’m not suggesting that insularity is better or even safer than being open minded. Is it possible that the real treasure lies in transcendence?
First published on www.juwonogungbe.com on December 27th 2019
