For those who possess the attribute of enthusiasm, anything is possible. The power of being open, willing, eager and available, with cheerful commitment, simply makes things happen. However, there is a difference between the enthusiasm of being and doing on a superficial level, busy with what we really enjoy – and the enthusiasm of a deeper level. Superficial enthusiasm can make us feel OK, but not fully contented, not deeply satisfied. Deep enthusiasm is connected to what I need to be doing to fulfil subtle needs. Growing fulfilling relationships, having real, meaningful conversations, living focused on our highest aims of living in peace, with love and happiness.
Deep enthusiasm comes from the core of our being. It is the expression of the divinity that lies within each one of us, to offer that which makes us special and unique. When we are not working at a deeper level, there are signs. The signs that show that despite enthusiasm and getting things done, there is an element of comparison or competition. The critical judgement of others, or of feeling inferior or superior. When we have a strength like enthusiasm, we can overuse it. In the same way that if I have a full box of tools available, but am very skilled with a hammer, then the temptation is to only, and always, use the hammer and see everything in front of me as a nail. Then that skill becomes a problem.
With enthusiasm, many things do get done and this in itself can become a problem. Others who do not possess that skill may become jealous of all the achievements, and withdraw support or create obstacles. If others become jealous, then it is a sure sign that I am holding on to some kind of ego about my abilities.
So, enthusiasm is a wonderful attribute but it has to be balanced by some other virtue. It will be different for each one, but for example, it could be balanced beautifully with patience. Patience will give time for others to think about ideas that are offered, it will enable me to give respect and hear the views of others. Patience will also give me the ability to let go of an idea, knowing that if the idea is good then at some time in the future it will be the right time for it to blossom. Sometimes, enthusiasm simply plants a seed, which will be watered through time and will come to fruition at its own right moment.
Having faith in powerful thoughts and trust in the pure feelings with good wishes for the best to happen, will nourish the idea, so it can happen some other time.
The real secret in the power of enthusiasm lies in the origin of the word. It is from the Greek word ‘entheos’, meaning ‘inspired by God’, or ‘full of God’s power’. The special ingredient of the success of enthusiasm is to be totally selfless in the intention when offering, whatever it may be, with enthusiasm. It may be my time, my presence, my expertise, my ideas, my way of organising – it is selflessness that makes it happen in the right way. There is a big distinction between achieving and attaining. Achieving means getting things done with success. Attaining comes from our inner growth, connected to our highest aims. If we do everything for the good of others, for the bigger picture, with selfless motives – then we attain multimillion-fold. We may be very willing to make something happen, and if we do it with only our own energy, it may have a good outcome, even a great outcome, but it will not have an unlimited reach.
If we take blessings from the Divine, if we combine our energy with God’s energy, and lose the word ‘my’, then anything is possible. That kind of enthusiasm evokes the best in everyone, and with that kind of power of goodness, a wave of enthusiasm can be launched. Selfless enthusiasm means no desire for anything for the self, and is generated by the love of humanity and each and every individual.
Moira Lowe is Director of Brahma Kumaris Argentina.
