Ant Farm

I'm stepping into the deep end on this one, so if you're in search of lighter fare, please feel free to make like a tree and get the hell outta here.

Do you ever take a second to step back and think about our existence on this planet? Or, for that matter, whether your life has any meaning? Do you question the purpose behind everyday conceits such as buying brand name clothes or working out? If you don't, chances are you're an ant. (ahem, this will be cleared up shortly.)

By all accounts, humans will inhabit Earth for a relatively miniscule amount of time. A couple of thousand years out of millions. You and me, we will live for an average of 75 years, perhaps 77 if you're female. We are, after all, biological beings, and as such have to endure the same cycle of life and death that afflicts all others. The circle of life, Simba.

Ants, for example. We have all seen ant farms, or at least can imagine the concept. These ants run around, each with a specific task, never questioning the reason behind their actions. They are constantly scurrying around, going about their business, without a care in the world. They know they have a task to be done, and do it blindly. They work and then they die, to be replaced by a virtual clone.

When you think about it, Earth could be a giant ant farm, with humans taking over the parts of ants. Do YOU ever stop to think whether what you're doing has an impact on ANYTHING? What's the point of it all? A while back, I was a trader. Buying and selling thousands of shares within minutes. Creating nothing, building nothing. Except a bank account, which allowed me to buy more crap that I don't need or particularly want.

Why do we feel the need to buy brand name clothes, when the only purpose of clothes should be its original purpose, to protect us from the elements? What's the point? Why do we count on material items to make us feel good about ourselves? It's all about the newest this, and the fanciest that. Why do we work out? If it is solely for health reasons, then we should all be doing cardio and nothing else. Forget abs and pecs and lats and protein shakes. Vanity leads to insanity. Pissed off because someone didn't call when they said they would? Or upset because traffic made you late? Who gives a shit. These trivial things needlessly consume our lives. Take a second and step back to look at the canvass upon which you're painting your life. Smell the roses.

Our time on this planet is precious. Find out what's important to you, what makes you happy. Do it.

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OK, I'm done for now. PEACE.
M.L.