[smoothjazz]

> A person ought to believe they can do great things.

I think there's pressure on us to think this, but I find that the older I get the happier I am moving away from this idea. I've accomplished a lot in my life and at the end of the day it doesn't bring me satisfaction. What brings me satisfaction is being able to sit quietly with peace of mind and be content with just being.

The desire to do "great things" is paired with an existential anxiety that I don't think is healthy. And not to be political, but often "great things" mean accomplishments that don't correctly model externalities like environmental damage and human exploitation.

[apsurd]

I agree! The older I get the more i'm able to understand peace. It becomes the only thing truly valuable.

The paradox of holding both extremes is crucial i think. We're everything and nothing.