Competition

“Inside the Great Mystery that is, we don’t really own anything. So, what is this competition we feel then, before we walk, one at a time, through the same gate?” ~Rumi

Lately I’ve been thinking about competition. Is competition rooted in sibling rivalry or is it simply human nature? Do we compete because we lack something, feel inferior, or need validation? Is competition necessary for our survival? Do trophies and awards really matter? Are we all driven to win or outshine others?

Growing up an only child, I learned that many folks — often those from larger families — expected me to be “spoiled” and stingy and attention-seeking. And so, early on, I made an effort to share what I had, and always refrained from reaching for the biggest slice of cake. In the process, I discovered there was usually “enough” of everything to go around, and I found the most pleasure in giving or stepping aside to let someone else get a fair chance.

As the Sufi poet Rumi reminds us, we’re all walking through the same gate. Why not help each other along the way — and stop rushing to be first? ~CL