Achievement, too, figures prominently in American adult life. It may, in fact, be the quintessential American life narrative.
But then, again, that may be my own demon. As a first child — the child who grew up with the motto, “second is the first loser” — I’ve always struggled to balance life’s true priorities with the drive to achieve. It’s bad enough that my brother has declared his house a “no Scrabble zone;” my father quit playing chess with me; and I’ve had racquetball opponents complain, “I thought you were a nice guy.”
The “arc of ambition” (the title of a book) is not just a phrase used to describe our work-world, but is now used to describe the character of life itself.
The problem, of course, is there is always someone stronger, smarter, faster, or just younger. A life shaped exclusively by achievement is bound to disappoint.
So, what is a healthy organizing center for a life narrative? At the risk of sounding trite — love. Fundamental to the character of God and fundamental to the fabric of life is the longing for relationship. And the love of God does not exclude other passions, it orders them and gives balance.
Acquisition, exchange, and achievement are dimensions of life that are natural and, in the right balance, can enrich life. But is love and the relationships that it nurtures, that gives life meaning and depth. Find time to nurture it today.
Why do I want to achieve? If it is because I want to be important to others then I must not believe that I am important; else it would be a non-issue. My self-realization comes from knowing God loves me. Simple. Astounding. Perfect.