Why

Often times, when something happens to us – whether it be good – but most of the time, not so good, we ask why.

Maybe it’s because as human beings we function better with absolutes. “He is a bad person” or “That was a good choice.” We seem to run more efficiently when we’re able to compartmentalize our thoughts and then justify those preconceived ideas to support it.

I’m not so sure that’s the way the world works. No doubt we feel better about ourselves, as we believe we’re on the “right” side of history. But, do you remember those times when you weren’t right? It throws us for a loop and we do our best to re-trace our steps to justify our actions. However, most of the time we ignore our foible and move forward keeping our rules to the game unchanged. Why? Because it’s easier of course.

To question why something happens in order to find some kind of meaning in the event is natural – even necessary to move forward. That’s understandable. Ultimately, there’s no wrong answer.

In my experience the why, often times is hidden within the “doing” of your next action you choose to take. This – opposed to contemplating alone – brings “meaning” to the past with clarity and in a timely fashion.

Instead of asking “why,” maybe we can ask, “Now what?”