Daily Om foward: Focused Value

[frannyan]

January 17,
2006
Focused Value
Quality vs. Quantity

We live in an age of quantity. The media shapes us with the
notion that larger, faster, and more are often synonymous with better. We are
told that we need to find more time, more possessions, and more love to be truly
happy. A smaller quantity of anything that is high in quality will almost always
be more satisfying. A single piece of our favorite chocolate or a thin spread of
freshly made preserves can satisfy us more than a full bucket of a product that
we aren't very fond of. Similarly, one fulfilling experience can eclipse many
empty moments strung together. It is not the quantity of time that matters, but
the quality that you experience during each moment. Every minute is an
opportunity to love yourself and others, develop confidence and self-respect,
and exhibit courage.

Ultimately, quality can make life sweeter. When you
focus on quality, all your life experiences can be meaningful. A modest portion
of good, healthy food can nourish and satisfy you on multiple levels and, when
organically grown, nourish the earth as well. Likewise, a few hours of deep,
restful slumber will leave you feeling more refreshed than a night's worth of
frequently interrupted sleep. A few minutes spent with a loved one catching up
on the important details about family, work, or community can carry more meaning
than two hours spent watching television together.

Often, in the pursuit
of quantity we cheat ourselves of quality. Then again, quantity also plays a
significant role in our lives. Certain elements, such as hugs, kisses,
abundance, and love, are best had in copious amounts that are high in quality.
But faced with the choice between a single, heartfelt grin and a lifetime of
empty smiles, most would, no doubt, choose the former. Ultimately, it is not how
much you live or have or do but what you make of each moment that counts.

from http://www.dailyom.com/