Inspiration and Aspiration

It seems that I’ve come across two basic ways navigating life. One has to do with chasing, be it in the way of goals, values, or a way of being. The other has to do with indwelling. A discovery from within of what goals, values, or ways have been set before you. The more I talk with friends and strangers about how they see the world, the more these two dramatically different approaches seem to surface.

Being aspirational brings to mind the climbing of the mountain, the slaying of the beast, and the winning of the race. Strength and speed and intellect all play large rolls here. The challenge here is the way that what we are striving for may always seem out of reach - something that we can’t ever quite get to, but must continue to work towards.

Being inspirational brings to mind the giving of a gift, discovery, and embodiment. Contemplation, meditation, silence, and grace, are the large players here. The challenge here is the discernment of the inspiration that we are receiving - namely is it of truth or a lie.

Being aspirational without inspiration, lacks depth. Being inspirational without aspirational lacks proof.