December 11, 2022 | Issue #46

1 Quote. 1 Reflection. 1 Question.

1 Quote.

"Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world."

-From: Miyamoto Musashi

-Source: The Book of 5 Rings

1 Reflection.

Miyamoto Musashi was a Japanese philosopher, strategist, and swordsman. It is believed he won 60 duels, and all resulted in the death of his opponents. Although his life and stories are controversial his book, The Book of 5 Rings has gems of knowledge. 

In this quote, he tells us to take ourselves lightly. We are specks of dust on a planet we can't fully comprehend. Currently, our planet has just over 8 billion people on it. The reality is that we will encounter only a fraction of its people and if the Earth was one big beach, we would be lucky to explore a single grain of sand. 

Many of you fear this dilemma but you shouldn't because it is what it is. Life will continue far after you are gone, just as it did before you were born.  

So, what is the answer?

Musashi was on to something when he wrote this sentence in 1643. He tells us that we don't matter (in a good way) and that our lives should be focused on the world around us. The best way to do this is through service. 

What does the world need from you?
What does your family need from you? 
What does your neighbor need from you? 
What does your community need from you? 
What does your pet need from you? 


Everyone has something to give to the world or we wouldn't be here. 

Thomas Edison created the lightbulb. 

Julius Ellsberry died at Pearl Harbor rescuing several shipmates. 

10-year-old Kiera Larsen was killed pushing two toddlers out of the path of a runaway SUV.

Sue and Hector Badeau adopted 20 children who needed a home.

The world might not need you to invent something, sacrifice your life, or adopt children. But, the world will need you to give your time, energy, or money.

There are countless problems to solve in the world and that's why you need to think deeply about it. Think deeply about the world and it will reveal something to you.

1 Question.  

What can you do to serve the world this week?