I dream of a world where there are no villains to fight. There was a time in my life where I looked forward to the next challenge or chance to fight someone — physically (as I was an avid martial artist) or intellectually in a battle of wits. I mean, there were times when I only felt alive when there was a crisis of sorts.
But, as I began to do the deep inner work necessary to succeed in a company like this, I found myself on elevating those instincts and focusing them on helping everyone through making better products. It dawned on us both that the more development we had, the better our work. So, we just dedicated our lives to self-improvement and building that inner life, hoping it would reflect outward and into what we’ve created.
So now, I’m over having to fight to defend the company and the such. We’ve proven that we create good, effective products and if anyone wants to believe those projecting their frustrations at us, that’s on them. I just hope these types find help before they destroy themselves.
*A zen parable: *
A belligerent samurai, an old Japanese tale goes, once challenged a Zen master to explain the concept of heaven and hell. But the monk replied with scorn, “You’re nothing but a lout—I can’t waste my time with the likes of you!”
His very honor attacked, the samurai flew into a rage and, pulling his sword from its scabbard, yelled, “I could kill you for your impertinence.”
“That,” the monk calmly replied, “is hell.”
Startled at seeing the truth in what the master pointed out about the fury that had him in its grip, the samurai calmed down, sheathed his sword, and bowed, thanking the monk for the insight.
“And that,” said the monk, “is heaven.”
I have officially dropped my blade and I now search for something higher. I’m not fighting anymore.
