The limits

If you happened to watch the Olympic men weightlifting , you would find out quickly that we have our limits. We are shaped in this body, given that much neurons and glued to the ground by gravity (tell that to the jumpers).

This is an unpopular observation. We are more used to hearing inspirational messages, that we can defy logic, the law of gravity, social obligation and even growing our nest egg infinitely (most touted during the “irrational exuberance” 90’s). Yet, from that screen, I stared at a physical reality: Korean, Indonesia, Colombian. All got limits about how much weight they can lift and hold.

Realizing and finding out those limits are the mark of maturity. In the end of all learning, we return to the starting point and know ourselves for the first time.  Some of us found out that our parents and spouses were right all along. Others have proved them wrong. But all got limits about how far one can push the envelope. Out of 24/7, 365 day world, we can only progress that much. Up the hierarchy of needs. Up to self-actualization  and Enlightenment.

This Recession holds the mirror for a lot of people to see themselves, their lust and limits.

We still want to hear inspirational messages, walk on Tony’s hot coals, and climb those fake walls at the Mall. But we also know, at least for the first time, there are limits to growth and limits to our personal wishful thinking. Great men and women know this after their term(s) in public office. They retreat to the range, some even grow hair (in Lyndon Johnson case) while most spend time with grandchildren where it matters most.

This is when the Allures of the world are sending out marketing messages, that you can have it all, without limits. Shake, shake, shake, shake, shake your booties. I will never forget the irony of the Titanic: no one seemed to know they were in danger until it’s too late. The scene we all know too well : “I am King of the world”. Fake it until you make it. Really? Tell that to the weightlifters.