The importance of being earnest.

While this is the title of a movie, in which two friends use the same pseudonym (“Ernest”) for their sly and devious activities…..  it isn’t really what I am talking about tonight.  At least, I don’t think so.  I’ve never seen the movie.

Anyway… I am talking about the word.  Earnest.  I love this word.  I will probably name my first born son Ernest.

It refers to something which shows sincere and intense conviction.  It means to be devout and unfeigned.  To be impassioned.  To dive into things with a heartfelt attitude.   Authentic.  Honest.  Resolute.

I believe that in life… it is amazing when you have something that you truly feel earnest about.

Sometimes people do things out of duty, or responsibility, or need.  But sometimes those things are met with a certain lack of enthusiasm, or a bit of languor.

To be totally honest, I am on a few endeavors for community service.  I serve on boards, and work on projects, and those sorts of thing.  But it is an action of duty.  An obligation.   While I am dedicated, I cannot honestly say that I am passionate about it (at least not all the time).

On the other hand, I feed the birds.  Frequently and consistently.  I do it because I don’t want them to go hungry.  I do it earnestly.  It isn’t an easy task, and there isn’t any payoff or reward.  (Well… I get to watch them eat.  While that is completely cool… I could find other things to watch…. that would not be as involved, and cost so much.)

It isn’t my intention to gain praises or approval.  It is just something I do because I am whole-heartedly committed to it.

I wish I could understand more about myself… to know and find the things that impassion me.   Things that I would feel intense enthusiasm and conviction for.

I think there is a LOT to be said for the importance of being earnest.   I have met some people that seem to have an ulterior motive for most of what they do.  On the other hand, I have met numerous earnest individuals.  And when your motive is to do something…. because it is the good thing to do… an no one else is watching….

… well… you completely rock.  I wish good blessings for you.  Earnestly.