An Epiphany about Perfection

“There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique, and if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium; and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, not how it compares with other expression. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep open and aware directly to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. No artist is pleased. There is no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a queer, divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.” ~Martha Graham


While I was getting ready today, I was thinking about something that I hadn't done to my satisfaction. This thought led me to perfectionism and to the thought that nothing is ever really perfect. Then I thought about perfect moments - I have experienced a few of those. Moments when you know that all is right in your world. The perfect sky, the perfect food, the perfect kiss, the perfect words said at just the right moment, the perfect combination of any or all of those things.

What do perfect things have in common? Surprise. Serendipity. Spontenaity.

Pefection cannot be planned, cannot be forced. Perfection lies in the unexpected quality of the moment.

Expecting perfection is then a way to stave it off. Force it away. To plan for perfection or to set it as a goal is the surest way to prevent it from even peeking in the window.

Interesting, huh? I have to ponder.