Some say that the desire for growth is always rooted in dissatisfaction, I beg to differ. I may be odd, but dissatisfaction rarely inspires me. Initially I feel a bit down, negative and stuck, whereas contentment gives me freedom. I realize that I’m not stuck! Unhindered by negativity, I have the clear frame of mind to look at all the options, think out of my box without pressure, and remember to keep my eyes open for new ideas and possibilities Dissatisfaction blinds me.
Desiring growth is a human phenomenon. Throughout childhood we look forward to the next phase of life marking milestones and marking walls by the quarter inch. Once our full stature is reached we continue to look ahead still marking milestones with graduations, marriage, children, careers and accomplishing goals – until we stop, or die.
When I believe dissatisfaction is a good foundation for growth I tend to focus on the negative and that leads me in a path I’d rather not travel. Often the first negative thought is not nearly as bleak as the next, nor that one as hopeless as the one that follows – it’s a downward spiral. Worse yet, dissatisfaction wells up in me a need to blame. Blaming myself doesn’t help me any more than blaming you or even the circumstances.
Desiring growth, movement or change is not a choice – we are human – it is what we do. Cultivating contentment is a choice that God intends for us to make. When we choose to be grateful and live with a real sense of peace, our eyes are unveiled to possibilities that are veiled when we are dissatisfied. Untainted by negativity we make healthy, wise decisions and fulfill the longing that never dies – growth.
Besides all that, contentment is way more fun!! Not to mention the fact that we are called to be content. We know God doesn’t intend for us to stagnate so I’m quite certain he wouldn’t call us to contentment if that is where it led. Wanna grow? Try contentment. I’ve been so very blessed when that is the choice I’ve made.