Pursuing Desires

It isn’t really easy to define what we want, to write it on a list or verbalise it to the people we love. It’s even more difficult to keep going for what we want after we try and fail a few times. But we have to keep at it, keep going for what we want—I’m not saying keep using the same methods (since that is the definition of insanity) but to innovate and figure out new ways to go for what we want (you may find that there is something else you enjoy more).




Speaking for myself I know there were times when I felt overwhelmed and it didn't feel like I’d achieve but not giving up was crucial. A real example of this for me was getting through college. I was simply treading water for most of my college experience. Please don’t get me wrong, I had fun and I was productive member of a few of the clubs I participated in — both my experiences at College of the Bahamas and Methodist University were critical for my development, plus I met some amazing people at each location. However, academically I got B’s C’s and F’s throughout my college career. The biggest wake up call was when I was suspended and had to take a break from school…let me tell you that was enlightening. I ended learning a lot more (not just general knowledge but aspects of myself)…so when it was time to prove that I could return to school (yeah, I had to get passing grades in two classes before I could return to being a regular student…and I Aced the supplemental classes!). 




I wanted my degree, desperately wanted it but I had coasted through life with minimal effort and that approach wasn’t going to help me at all when it came to achieving that desire. The time spent with my family, taking additional courses and reflecting on what I really desired helped me realise what I had to do to achieve my goals. So I changed my study habits (reviewing material right after class so it stuck with me a lot better), paid attention more in class (seeing thats how I learnt the best) and actually participated in discussions (made it stick in my memory better). Bare in mind this wasn’t a perfect adjustment but I did make it and desires in my adult life are not as easy to find resolutions for but I am still keeping in mind what I want and actively finding ways to achieve.




My anecdote may seem slightly out of place but frankly it was when I was at one of my lowest points (the public shame of having to withdraw from school for a semester unsettled me to my core but it was essential to my development). People don’t run marathons on their first attempt, body builders aren’t the vision of demigods from a few arm curls and authors don’t write best sellers in a day — each of these endeavours requires remaining constant, not being afraid to fail but every ready to try again…. persistence.