The Fire and the Fireplace

I was listening to a podcast discussing how people navigate a fulfilling life. Psychologist Dr. Byock shared an insight on how there is “a tug of war between meaning and stability.”

Meaning is a fire, where we crave openness, freedom, and adventure—while stability is a fireplace, where we look for safety and groundedness. We need both to feel complete; yet, it can feel it can pull us in opposite directions. Do I cast off into uncharted waters? Or stay comfortable on dry land?

As I write this in Pune, India, I feel grateful for family —something that has given me both: wonderful meaning with incredible stability. And it’s a shared sentiment across most countries (see below).

What’s bringing you meaning & stability this year? Hope you can find either (or both!) to warm you for a long time to come! Happy Thanksgiving.