‘Cease chasing it and it will come to you naturally’ is a commonplace widely spread nowadays. Indeed, in recent decades, society has contributed to the emergence of the idea that the ‘chase’ is an obstructive action, close to a sinful one.
One shall not chase a person or a job position to optimize their chances to actually attain it. One shall not chase money or happiness, for all it would entail is a blockage. In that regard, pursuing these desires is oftentimes referred to as an impediment. We put the blame on the ones who vigorously attempt at fulfilling those by emphasizing so-called greed.
Yet, is there anything so morally wrong about going after what one wants? Does not this condemnation comes from a place of bitterness? Is not the chase merely an act of devotion?
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‘Commitment is an act, not a word.’ — Sartre
It is important to denote that chasing, be it a person or a job opening, means following a trail, that is our emotions, sensitivities, intuitions, or aspirations. To chase is also to fight. It is believing how powerful one can be if they stick to their goals. It simply is taking action and acknowledging that there is an accomplishment that will fulfill their life and is thus worth pursuing. Chasing represents the idea of grasping wholly one’s inner world, understanding their needs, and their wants. It thus indicates a strong knowledge of themselves and their potential.
In other words, we could refer to the chase from a more positive perspective using the term ‘commitment’. For, trying to reach what we desire requires a great deal of work and patience. As Bukowski once formulated: ‘If you’re going to try, go all the way / Otherwise, don’t even start’. To pledge to live up to our dreams and expectations demands one to be authentic and true to themselves.
Nevertheless, the unbounded will for commitment does not tend to be prevalent in our society. Conversely, the types of commitment that solely revolve around one sphere of life, such as the contract binding two beings in marriage or partnership, do appear to be more frequent. In fact, possessing this eagerness to fully immerse oneself in an endeavor is strenuous. It requires resilience, perseverance, and a prominent keenness to live fully that few individuals are endowed with or struggle to maintain all three at the same time. One needs to invest their time and their persona in order to commit.
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Without a genuine interest, without a spark, without passion, a venture is drawn to a close and given up on. Is it ever worth it, however, to abandon a project on the road without adding a sufficient amount of effort to convey our truthful longing?
All in all, chasing means being passionate, confident in our dreams, trusting, and dedicated. And yet, in spite of that, one still needs to wisely choose the battles they wish to fight. For it is most likely not worthwhile it losing oneself in commitment.
which commitment are you most proud of?
Que electricidad. Carlos Sadnesss.
Tales in Lostness 