Hold Fast to Dreams

So on Monday night after work I watched Julie & Julia.  Monday is apparently movie night around here (or at least it has been for the past two weeks).  Anyway, I think the character of Julie Powell is someone that many can relate to.  Or perhaps I can only speak for myself, but regardless.  Not being satisfied with your job and wanting more out of life is a predicament that resonates far and wide.  Aside from making me want to bake something that is both aesthetically appealing and delectable (despite the fact that I am pretty much useless in the kitchen), this movie was like a motivational form of encouragement to follow your passion.  Just go for it, you know?  When outcomes are dubitable and the future is clouded by ambiguity, it is much easier to play it safe and stick to what you know - what works and what keeps your existence somewhat normal (albeit monotonous and untitillating ).  But the thing is, how long can one go living in mediocrity or less without becoming bored and subsequently unhappy?  I know I wouldn’t last.  I guess what I am trying to get at is that I want to have excitement in my life.  Furthermore, I want that excitement to be on a daily basis.  And I don’t think that’s too much to ask.

I had a conversation with my ten year-old cousin the other afternoon.  He wants to be a movie director someday, but he also wants to have additional part-time jobs that he genuinely takes interest in and enjoys - jobs that stimulate his mind and pique his curiosity.  Granted he may be a little idealistic in his vision, but he’s only ten.  What counts is his ambition, his drive, his unwillingness to live perfunctorily.

Ultimately, the message is: find your happiness.  Because at the end of the day, nothing really matters if you are not happy.  When you’re happy, you not only feel better, but you live better.