The Big Picture

In my book, “The Art of Radical Self Love: The First Steps to Healing and Well-Being”, I reference The Big Picture and briefly describe it as my worldview that there is more to life than the material world of our five senses and that we are all connected and participating in this thing called life together.

There is an appropriate New Testament passage found both in Matthew 16:26 and Mark 8:36 that paraphrases to “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his immortal soul?” Even for non-believers, scriptures can offer pointed questions to keep the Big Picture in focus as we move through life experiences.

In ancient Rome, there often was a grand parade after a military victory. Riding in the chariot beside the triumphant general was a slave/companion, holding a golden laurel wreath above the general’s head while whispering in his ear, “Remember thou art mortal”, to keep the event in perspective for the conquering hero.

A more current saying is “He who dies with the most toys still dies.”

Well, anytime I can cheer you up, just let me know. The point is, that in the material world, it is easy to begin prioritizing acquiring wealth and power and influence in a way that distracts us from the purpose of being here. The foundation of our purpose is cooperation not competition. Me first does not mean me only. Self love is taking care of ourselves – spirit, mind, and body – because we already have been gifted with everything we need to be well and happy. We need to mind our own business of self care because we’re the only one who can. When we choose wellness we also choose the responsibility of action toward that outcome.

How we choose to spend our time reflects our commitment to our well being. Choose to be immune to negativity in your thoughts, experiences and even in suggestions. Turn that into an affirmation. Wealth, power, and influence are neutral material conditions – they are neither good nor bad. They are not an end in themselves. They can be an opportunity to demonstrate generosity, gratitude, and forgiveness. And those are very healthy attitudes. It all evolves from intention.

Radical self love is a holistic practice involving the intentional coordination of energy, thoughts, words, and actions for the purpose of loving the world back to health, one person at a time, beginning with ourselves. Unconditional love is contagious in the best possible way. Keep the intention of contributing to the highest and best good for humankind by recognizing your innate worth and power, and honoring your story. Choose to love yourself because you’re enough and you’re worth it. Keep the Big Picture in focus,