The Power of Being Earnest

In a world where superficiality often reigns supreme and distractions are aplenty, being earnest is a beacon of wisdom. It is an age-old principle echoed in various philosophies and religions, but its relevance is timeless. Today, as we navigate the complexities of modern life, embracing earnestness is more crucial than ever.

The Dhammapda extols the virtue of earnestness. Consider this: living earnestly means living with intention, purpose, and mindfulness. When you are earnest, your actions have weight, your words have meaning, and your existence feels substantial. Those who live without such purpose are akin to walking zombies, drifting through life without truly experiencing it.

But what does it mean to be earnest? It is more than just being sincere or honest. Being earnest goes beyond mere surface-level actions and requires a deeper commitment to living with integrity, authenticity, and genuine intention. It means being true to yourself, knowing and honoring your values, and striving toward personal growth and fulfillment.

Living earnestly also means taking responsibility for your choices and actions. In a world where blame-shifting has become prevalent, embracing this virtue can set you apart. When you are earnest, you hold yourself accountable for your decisions, whether they bring success or failure. This mindset allows you to learn from mistakes rather than deflecting them onto others or making excuses.

Moreover, being earnest also involves treating others with honesty and respect. It means valuing their time, thoughts, and feelings and communicating openly and transparently. It means treating them as human beings and not objects to be manipulated. Being this way builds trust in relationships and fosters genuine connections with others.

In an era where social media often promotes superficiality, being earnest encourages us to focus on what truly matters in life rather than getting caught up in the endless pursuit of image or material possessions.

By living with intention, integrity, responsibility, and authenticity, we can cultivate deeper connections with ourselves and those around us while finding true purpose and fulfillment. Earnest people live in alignment with their values and beliefs, bringing them a more profound sense of satisfaction.

My father was an earnest man. He was wise, steady, contemplative, and strong. His life was based on consideration and restraint. His happiness increased because he lived simply, intentionally, and mindfully, making him a pillar of steadiness in a chaotic world.

You might even say he was a "serious man." And that would be accurate, although he had a great sense of humor. Being earnest does not mean you don't laugh - even at yourself.

His earnestness equipped him with the resilience to withstand life's challenges - including the suicide of his daughter at a young age and the onset of systemic cancer in his twilight years. By practicing earnestness, he was a symbolic mountain, withstanding the floods, hurricanes, and tornados of adversity. His resilience did not come from avoiding challenges but from facing them head-on with a clear and focused mind.

Furthermore, he was highly respected and admired by others, even though many in his higher education profession disagreed with his more conservative and traditional views. His strong moral compass and unwavering commitment to their beliefs made him an excellent role model for me. He inspired me to strive for excellence and lead by example through my words and actions. He encouraged me also to be earnest.

While I slept-walked through my early adult life, I woke up in my 30s by doing the inner work necessary to become more aware of my impact and purpose. Earnest people work on themselves so that they can be of service to others.

In a modern world that often values superficiality and immediate gratification, being earnest is more than just a virtue; it is a path to a fulfilling and enlightened life. It equips us with the tools to navigate life's challenges, brings us closer to true happiness, and sets us apart as leaders and wise individuals. As we strive to live earnestly, we improve our lives and inspire those around us.