When I hear the sound of a Lamborghini, Ferrari, or Aston Martin driving by under a heavy throttle, I cannot help but think of the definition of winning. For some, it is a matter of toys with the cliché reminding us that s/he who has the most wins. For others, it is the sense of power, entitlement, or something that is recognized as a status symbol. Then there are those that measure life by the difference they see in the world around them.
As I consider the spectrum and where my view falls on it, Life reminds me of the following.
It is natural to think that others are winning while we are losing. Christians feel it as do other faith systems as well. The Psalmist’s observation still rings true; “Your enemies are out there whooping it up, the God-haters are living it up.” (Psalm 83.2)
Defining success in one’s life does not need to be linked to what others think or believe. Many define success along the spectrum. In their lives, the measure they use is the measure they have to live with. Regardless of their rationale, what they think or believe is just that, theirs. The freedom you and I have gives us the opportunity to define winning on our own terms.
I am reminded that the greatest battle I will ever right is with my heart. Will I choose to live for others with compassion and mercy or will I choose to live for myself? Will I define winning by the external or what I do with my heart as told by my actions?
I do not profess to know how others should define winning in her/his life, especially in light of apparent failures. While I see many points of failure in my life, I also know the battle for my heart continues. Love for others has a stake firmly planted. There are many moments where I struggle to hold on. I am reminded that this embrace and the actions that follow are the definition of winning for me that trumps all others.
