MIB & Jon Acuff

We watched MIB International the other day. I won't give away too much, but M is a characterized version of Jon Acuff's "Quitter." In his book, Jon talks about that tension of chasing the dream and being smart about your process... don't quit your day job until your dream job supports your vision and rhythm of life.

M is fantastic at this.

She worked wildly hard to achieve her education goals. She was willing to look foolish to every potential employer while seeking out her dream job. She was willing to work day jobs that weren't quite her cup of alien tea while pursuing the connections, no matter how insanely difficult, to fulfill her dream. And when the opportunity reared it's head, she had to work even harder to prove herself by saving MIB and the world!

Dream the work. Get that training. Network with those people and places. Read, write, ask, observe, chase some aliens and clarify your mission. Absolutely go work the dream & don't forget to work while dreaming, Quitter.

Acting or Acting?

One step forward and two, three or ten back is normal.

Now, by definition to be hypocritical is to act in a way contrary to our beliefs or proclamations. Living a hypocritical life rhythm is about acting. Faking. Choosing at every turn to be something or someone we aren't.

On the other hand, we all stumble, fail and use poor judgement on any given day. In fact, maturing in our parenting, EQ, skill-set, spiritual gifts or creative pursuits requires faulty steps and missed observations. Acting out our beliefs and preferred future, even imperfectly, is part of the journey.

The difference is clear, isn't it? You and I aren't defined by our missteps, no, we brush them off, learn and give it another go. On the other hand, a life rhythm of pretending does make one a hypocrite.

Are you a writer, or do you just claim to be writing that book?

Are you parenting, or do you leave that blessing / burden to others?

Are you worshiping God, or do you just polish up your language when it's convenient?

It's Easier to Hear the Jerk than the Ally

It's generally true. And it takes a lot of practice along with the creation of mental and physical habits to ignore the jerks around us and focus on those supporting, cheering and partnering with us on the journey.

Yes, learn from the jerks. Like, how not to live. And, of course, if they have an important point worth pondering then take it and leave the jerkiness behind.

Remember, it takes half a dozen positive words and experiences to cancel out one from a jerk. So, cut through the jerky and go live out these positives. Create them. Offer them. Build up your account and fill others along the way. Be the encouraging ally, after all, it's easier to be the jerk and we all know the easier road is rarely worth taking.

Words build up and tear down. Leave the jerk to his own pile of rubble.