Deacon Branson Hipp has a post up on Those Catholic Men about theThe Trap of Man Culture. In the post, he critiques the concept of lists that are prevalent in self-improvement blogs. One such list is the so-called bucket list where a person tries to list all the things he would like to do before he dies. In general, such lists are harmless and they actually might force you to live a more interesting life here and now, but they can also distract you from what is really important in life.
What is really important in life? Is it collecting a certain number of experiences? Making a certain amount of money? Of course, this is a very personal question so there is no right or wrong answer. One thing is clear though, varied experiences and great wealth do not seem to confer happiness. Robin Williams led a life that most people can only dream of. He was wealthy; he was loved by millions; he had interesting work that was constantly changing from project to project, but he also suffered from depression.
Recently, my grandmother passed away. She didn't have much in the way of material possessions. She was not well-traveled or well-educated. From a purely worldly perspective, she might be viewed as a failure, but she was deeply loved by her family and she died with her children and grandchildren around her. My grandmother was also fortunately in that she was able to receive the Sacrament of the Sick before passing. What could be a better ending to a life? To know that you are loved by your family and to have the consolation that you will be with God after death?
Whatever else you may do, focus on your relationship with God and your family. This way you will be a success even if you fail at achieving those other, more ephemeral goals.
