I like inspiration, motivation and celebration. Not exactly in that order, but I like all three. It's real nice when they all happen at the same time, though rare indeed. I also like words. Obviously. Otherwise, I wouldn't be writing so many of them. Maybe I could print them someday for a souvenir? What do you think?
This word, 'gumption,' is such a great word for so many reasons, not the least of which in Zen and The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, Robert M. Pirsig has the main character explain why.
If you haven't ever read the book, the narrator talks about a 'sort of Chautauqua.' He explains:
What is in mind is a sort of Chautauqua-that's the only name I can think of for it- like the traveling tent-show Chautauquas that used to move across America, this America, the one that we are now in, an old-time series of popular talks intended to edify and entertain, improve the thoughts of the hearer. The Chautauquas were pushed aside by faster-paced radio, movies and TV, and it seems to me the change was not entirely an improvement. Perhaps because of these changes the stream of national consciousness moves faster now, and is brodader, but it seems to run less deep. (Pirsig pg 7).
You must read this. In fact, Mr. Pirsig is still around, and he doesn't need my help selling books. But, this is an amazingly popular book that could and perhaps would change your life if you you keep an open mind. My favorite part of this narrative is about the word 'gumption,' where Pirsig writes:
I like the word gumption because it's so homely and so forlorn that it looks out of style it looks as though it needs a friend and isn't likely to reject anyone who comes along. It's an old Scottish word, once used a lot by pioneers, but which, like "kin," seems to have all but dropped out of use. I like it also because it describes exactly what happens to someone who connects with Quality. He gets filled with gumption. (Pirsig pg 272).
I've been particularly filled with gumption lately and I intend it to stay that way. Paying off gumption-traps are time consuming and laden with interest. I like BMW bikes and Harley's, though I don't think I'll ever own one, for my life is short enough.
