How do we know when to let go and when to persist? How do we know if it is just another obstacle on the road to endure our spirit, or if it is a sign, or yet another sign that we must detour? When shall “Knock, and it shall be opened” be our mantra, and when shall “Go as a river” be our mantra?
Are we in the non-Far-East hard-wired to persist no matter what and to perceive a change of plans as a defeat? Do we see a change of plans as proof of poor decision-making or as a sign of wise eye and resilient muscle? In our society, we listen to a number of proverbs, sayings and quotes reinforcing perseverance: “Persevere and you will succeed”, “If you don’t cry, you don’t get fed” (popular Argentine proverb- not only referring to the fact of voicing your needs, but that a baby probably needs to cry a few times until the mother gets the message), “Pleading to God and persisting” (Argentine saying), “Knock, and it shall be opened” (Jesus Christ*). However, Catholicism also has it’s own ‘let go’ message–it is more of a religious spin than philosophical-psychological; yet same result: acceptance. Trust in God, even when we cannot understand or see the logic.
It is easy to write now. It is difficult for me, when you are in one of those situations, when you have to make that type of decision. In addition, you are probably biased towards continue trying if it is something that you really wanted, or where you have some vested interest.
As pressing as time can feel for making the opportune decision (my ticket was non-refundable and the flight was in less than a week!), time also gives us the gift of perspective when we look back. Hopefully later on, in hindsight –just as I had experienced in other plan-changing decisions-, I get confirmation that it was the best to do.
(*) From the Gospel of Matthew, ch 7, v 7-8. “Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, Knock and it shall be opened. For everyone who asks gets, and he who seeks finds and to him who knocks, the door is opened.”
"When someone can forget his intentions and want nothing… the door opens by itself to him.” (Michael Ende, The Neverending Story)
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