Derring-Do

"Attack the day like birds of prey!" - Rush (Force Ten)

The circumstances of the world beyond our control might be labeled DESTINY, though I prefer framing that concept as "luck." 

Within ourselves, raw and refined DESIRE nudges and compels us to pursue a path through that seeming chaos. 

The third and perhaps most important element in this trifecta of sapient existence could be simply termed Derring-Do, or the will to act. I consider this mindful capability the crowning element. Sure, it can be driven by inner inspiration, but how we act embracing or defying the desire and luck of the moment is core to our inner character and our deeper efforts to pursue a satisfying journey.

How we act is guided by the accumulated experiences, skills and ethical concepts we've learned. Incorporating these lessons into our daily lives happens both unconsciously and with great contemplation. The devotion to building the best world and best self we can muster may require sacrifice and suffering, alas if goodness is the result we push on through.

One way to ratchet up our derring-do is to begin each day by envisioning the things, small and large, we want to accomplish. By mentally itemizing the things we want to accomplish, inside and out we give ourselves an agenda to strive towards. Whether it's working on life projects or personal virtue, executing everyday tasks, or pursuing pleasureful activities, reviewing them (perhaps in journal format) assembles a trajectory for our day to follow.

Subsequently, our intentional actions throughout the day will have a psychic framework of sorts to attach to. Whether we're pursuing these things alone or as part of a team or with a partner, the framework envisions each step we take as we navigate through the good and bad luck moments and channel our inner desires to make it real.

At days end, we can review our progress. By gently evaluating our accomplishments and comparing what we had envisioned to what we have actually done we can systematically improve our effectiveness. Whether as a journal entry or mental exercise this can serve as a check list moment, but also a practice of self-gratitude and self-guidance. Accepting ourselves as empowered though imperfect human beings strengthens our wherewithal. Mindfully growing our capacity for compassion and reason, we can increase the goodness we project into the Universe for ourselves, for the ones we love and for the flourishing of a joyful world.

Give the song Animate by Rush a listen

to amplify the Derring Do in your life