In the history of western thought, humans are seen as autonomous entities, hence the word individual which affirms a person's free standing status. In The Geography of Thought, the astute author notes that a person from the western part of the world tends to describe himself using discrete categories while one who hails from the east prefers to use relational terms. The distinction is becoming fuzzier with the advent of globalization where East and West meet and exchange notes. Yet, it still stands that there are broadly speaking two approaches to self-introduction. I shall endeavor to adopt both methods of introducing myself.
Starting off with the unusual (but it's becoming more popular as thinkers begin to see the power of relationships) approach, my identity is deeply relational in nature. I am a son to my parents, brother to my sister, and friend to those dear to me. Above all, I exist in relation to the ultimate and transcendental Truth, from whom everything derives its meaning and existence.
Trained as an Accountant and Engineer, my work revolves around numbers and figures. But that's my day job. In my spare time (a precious and scarce commodity), I am often found in the company of books. Words never fail to enthrall me and I find deep pleasure in reading, writing and thinking about life.
(J)oy
My life's mission and quest is the pursuit of Joy. More than "a feeling of great pleasure and happiness" (according to Google), Joy is a multifaceted and dynamic way of life that embraces the Divine. It is the existential moorings of a meaningful and purposeful life that is full of zest, energy and direction. It is such an important concept that it deserves capitalization--(J)oy.
This definition of Joy is by no means comprehensive and serves merely as a springboard for further inquiry. It is a deep subject that deserves much thought and experimentation, which requires a life long journey to discover and unpack.
Perhaps some may wonder whether Joy and happiness are interchangeable. To my mind, they are not exactly the same. Happiness is a feeling that is event specific and it is a function of our moods. However, risking oversimplification, Joy is a mindset, a journey and most importantly--an ontological entity. It transcends the limitations of ourselves and provides a stable ground on which to build our lives. A person may still experience Joy in the dearth of happiness, especially when circumstances are bleak and things aren't going as hoped or planned. It is a state of well-being that is existentially grounded, robust, challenging and meaningful.
According to the best-selling book The Road Less Traveled, "life is difficult", but it is also interspersed with beauty and blessings. I need an anchor that will allow me to weather the storms of life with serendipity while not losing the child-like awe and gratitude at grace notes that fill my life from above. This is the kind of Joy that I want to pursue and this website is the place where I hope to share my journey and experiences. My posts will generally fall into the following categories: life, work, leisure and faith.
Lastly, I would like to thank you, my dear reader, for your patience and interest in what I'm passionate about. The views expressed on this website are personal opinions borne from experience and some may not agree with some of it. It is normal. But I'd love to hear your opinions, so feel free to use the contact page to get in touch with me. I may even choose to publish your comments (with your permission of course) where relevant.
I would like to conclude my introduction by urging you to follow your heart and dreams. We are all on the journey of life together, albeit to different destinations. Let us pursue Joy with gusto; however you choose to define to it.
