We like to imagine that our life follows some kind of trajectory, like the plot of a novel, and that by recognizing its arc we might, in turn, become its author. But often what we feel instead is a sense of precariousness-- a gut-level suspicion that hard work, thrift, and following the rules won't give us control over the story, much less guarantee a happy ending. For all that, we keep on hoping, and that persuades us to keep on living.
"...we are the captain of our ship..." I think that taking control of one's self is extraordinarily difficult and challenging... the merest setback sends one into despair... the biggest obstacle is the ease of life... we are not promised comfort... nor are we guaranteed bliss... being satisfied with control over what we can control is all that one can do... if this is done, you are going to be able to find happiness...
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