Patty Mayeux Blog

Miriam Webster defines enthusiasm as “intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval.” Plus this archaic, derogatory meaning: “religious fervor supposedly resulting directly from divine inspiration, typically involving speaking in tongues and wild, uncoordinated movements of the body.” The Latin origin is “inspired or possessed by a god.”

            I recently read a quote comparing enthusiasm to social courage. Are we that intent on conforming to the world’s idea of “normal” that we shy away from any over the top expression of our passion? Too bad. What might our world look like if every one of us understood our specific inner drive to create that thing which is ours alone? It seems many are bent on destruction by bending the truth, building fear, swaying the common opinion to advance their skewed agenda. Are they being courageous? I don’t think so. It’s a far braver thing to pull back the darkening drapes to reveal a light- and hope-filled world. Fear controls. Hope frees. Here’s to the courageous who are passionate about providing hope to the oppressed and downtrodden. And to those who build their lives around adding beauty to their corner of the world. I’ll strive to be enthusiastic even it is means to be socially courageous. Come spirit, enthuse!