Why do you do what you do?
No, seriously. Why do you do what you do, whatever it is that you do?
Could you get a bit obsessive about this question? I suppose so. But it is worth asking, over and over again.
You got out of bed at whatever time it was. Why? For what purpose?
Why did you eat and drink what you ate and drank? Or, why did you choose not to eat?
What did you put on your body to wear out into the world, to tell other people about you, your tastes, and your intentions? Why those messages, and not some other messages? Why are those the messages you choose to give to the world?
Why did you go to work? Why did you choose that work?
Why did you behave that way, and not some other way, towards whatever persons you encountered along the way?
Why, why, why, why. Sometimes it is important to take a step back and ask that defense-raising question of yourself, repeatedly, digging in.
Well, why, you might ask, and it is a worthwhile question. Asking ourselves “why” is very important, because, if we drill down far enough, we come down to whether or not we have decided upon a central principle, a guiding ethic, a core belief that allows us to direct our behavior with cohesion and authenticity towards our purpose. If you don’t have a “why,” you are less focused than the average toddler. A toddler can be remarkably determined in pursuing her goals, despite an inability to clearly articulate the “why” for coloring on the walls or giving Teddy Bear a bath in the toilet.
For religious people, the central “why” comes down to a covenantal relationship with the Lord and, for Christians, a relationship with Jesus, the Christ. That is the “why.”
Why get out of bed on time? Because an orderly life (ordered to what is best) requires self-discipline and routine, and honoring one’s legitimate commitments to others.
Why be kind to the barista, the cashier, the slowly shambling person in front of you on the sidewalk? Because they, like you, are a child of God and your rooted relationship with Him requires you to treat others as His children, too.
Why be honest with someone when you know it will be ill-received – the student whose work is apparently plagiarized, the employer asking you to do the unethical, the adult family member who is drinking in excess? Because it is important to be truthful, to not allow dishonesty to muddy the waters of relationships and to let yourself slip into that mud out of fear of conflict. Because your relationship with the Lord requires you to act honestly, justly, and with love.
Wishing you a new year full of the joy of discovering beautiful “why’s” in your life!
drloriputerbaugh 