The opening sentence caught my attention - as a good opening line should. Paraphrasing, it reminds us that production, the output you desire, or require, can be manipulated in any number of proven ways. The author uses the axiom of one not needing to ‘re-invent the wheel’ in order for success to occur, one must simply ‘commit to the effort necessary.’ All good.
As is my modus operandi, this opened the flood-gates and the metaphorical waters began to rush over the spillway with alarming speed. I see on the whiteboard of my mind the moment of inspiration from the inventor as he (I will assume it was a he) considers the possibilities of an endless circle used for utilitarian purposes. Hummmm. Was it from watching a rock roll down a hill? A snowball? A hollowed out section from a fallen tree? Gerbils frolicking? Wind blowing a bubble across a still lake at dusk? Or a dream? From where, oh where, dost our inspiration spring?
If, as the author suggests we should steadfastly borrow from those that have gone before us and employ the means and methods proven effective since the stone age, does that not imply that our job, or one part of it, is simply to keep the wheel moving? To keep the bearings greased and the rims true, pointed in the direction of our……what? Dreams, hopes, desires, profits, success’, victories or happiness?
OK. I could try a little bit harder. I could try a little bit more.
Keep the wheel moving. Push it, power it, propel it. Forward. The case could certainly be entertained, especially if you happen to be at a party of philosophers, that Sisyphus, busted for being a talented con-man, stealing fire and giving it to humans (gasp) and sentenced to eternal (without the possibility of parole) pushing of a huge semi-round boulder up a six percent grade in Hell, got off easy. He had a job. He was on a mission with a singular objective. KEEP THE WHEEL MOVING. ‘Be happy in your work,’ no matter its degree of difficulty, seeming contradictions or potentials for perpetuity. Do what must be done. And make it honest work, too!
Additionally, should one find the wisdom and courage to attach a shovel-full - or a truck-load full - of gumption, attention, attitude, humor and presence, the mission becomes the meaning. There is no substitute for hard work and there are no shortcuts. Anything of value, be it your peace of mind or mastering the sitar, will take focused effort. Yes, inspiration is the impetus to get started, to take that crucial first step, but consistency, hard work and relaxed focus, will get you the consistency and resilience necessary for achievement of your goals. We do this no matter what.
We keep the wheels moving.
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