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Against Spring
Cleaning
This
issue of the Chamber Business Review is all about spring cleaning. We have
articles on how to clean up our financial messes, the messes on our computer
and the messes in our closets. We have a wonderful article on how to live a
meaningful life.
Thankfully, we can find lots of books and articles and TV programs on lots
of healthy subjects – what to eat and not to eat, how to exercise, how not
to look like a fool on first dates, etc. We can go on-line and learn of the
carbon footprint each of us, individually, leaves on this earth through our
unholy and consumptive habits.
Those
of us who are married (our worse, have teenagers) can go home and hear about
our shortcomings and the things we need to do to become better, more
considerate people. I get tired just thinking about all the ways I can
improve. It makes me want to start smoking.
There
is no shortage of experts to tell us how to live. Don’t smoke, drink, belch
or indulge in bathroom humor. Remember your first impressions. It’s hard
to argue against so many do-gooders because they really mean well. To argue
with them is just to come off as a deranged sinner.
So I
write this article in praise of sin, sloth, bad habits, yellow teeth and a
thorough lack of hygiene. I do not recommend any of these things, of
course. I’ve just been thinking about a world without sin, without
problems. Heaven on earth would be a hell to live in.
I have
noticed that people with all types of serious shortcomings nevertheless
contribute something positive to our world. They make our world better,
richer (or in new-speak, more “robust”). Think of the most negative and
unpleasant person in your family – although this person might be a real
drag, still your family needs this person to be whole. Be thankful they’re
here – only once a year.
I have
noticed that truly beautiful things are never perfect. Frequently it’s the
cup stain on the wood table that makes it perfect. I prefer the
practice-takes or out-takes of music to the over-produced final product.
There is humanity in the mistakes which makes the music even more
beautiful.
Yes, we
should try to improve ourselves. Spring cleaning is a good thing. But
let’s go easy on ourselves and our neighbors. By enforcing absolute virtue
and perfection we might take all the good out of life, or worse, do great
evil. Let’s enjoy our imperfect world and our screwed up selves – they’re
perfect the way they are.
Call
me to schedule a legal consultation:
510-796-9144
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