Compulsion

Compulsion to do well by others makes a person a valued citizen, neighbor and friend. Compulsion to nurture selfishness makes a person materialistic, greedy and a true friend to no one.

As someone with a compulsive nature, I have had learn to direct my compulsive streak outward. Through my nursing practice and my various volunteer jobs over my adult life, I have learned that the key to my own well being is investing my compulsive energies in doing things for others after securing the basic needs of a modest life for myself. I do not believe in or advocate for the value of masochistic self-sacrifice of burlap-clad monks, though I understand those individuals are channeling their lives in the way they see fit for themselves.

Living creatively in the world entails dealing with the world on its own terms. I believe that being change changes the world. By channeling my compulsions toward doing good for others in the mundane, material world, I feel I am being the change from selfishness to generosity. By intentionally fostering peace and love in my own life, I feel I am part of changing the world to a less violent and more just environment. This is the basis of my humanist practice.