It's Bigger Than You: JB's Monday Momentum #25
Why We’re Part of Something Larger Than Ourselves
Estimated reading time: four minutes
Welcome to Monday Momentum, the weekly newsletter where I discuss practical wisdom, uncovering insights to enhance our lives one thoughtful moment at a time. While I have confidence in the ideas I write about, I am still learning them. I acknowledge that what works for me may not work for everyone. Take each idea as you see fit and let me know what you think!
Hello friends,
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There’s something bigger than just us. Whether we’re thinking about our families, the communities we’re part of, or even human existence as a whole, the truth is that we all exist within something much greater than ourselves. Yet, at the same time, we are each distinct individuals with our own paths, experiences, and identities. Embracing both of these truths—our individuality and our connectedness—can lead us to live more virtuous, meaningful lives.
If you missed the last edition—“The Power of the Unwanted”—you can click here to check it out.
A Question I am Contemplating:
How can recognizing our place within something bigger help us lead more meaningful lives?
It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day struggles and think we’re alone in this journey. We often focus so intently on our own challenges or goals that we forget how interconnected we are with the world around us. But when we shift our mindset to see ourselves as part of something bigger, it becomes clear that our actions are not just about us. This understanding should inspire us to always give our best effort, to act with intention, and to live in a way that uplifts not only ourselves but others as well.
Think about the groups you belong to—your family, friends, workplace, or even larger communities. Every action you take has an effect not just on your life but on the collective lives of others. When we embrace this idea, it changes how we approach everything we do. Suddenly, our efforts at work, our kindness to strangers, or our support for a loved one take on new meaning. These aren’t isolated acts; they’re part of a greater whole, contributing to something much larger than ourselves.
This connectedness also extends beyond the people we interact with—it’s about recognizing our place within the broader human experience. Our generation builds on the progress of those before us, and we, in turn, lay the foundation for those who come after. When we acknowledge this, we see that our efforts ripple out far beyond our own lives. This understanding calls us to act with care, purpose, and responsibility—not just for ourselves but for the good of all.
The Stoics taught a concept called sympatheia—the idea that we are all interconnected, not only with each other but with the entire “cosmos.” Marcus Aurelius, in his Meditations, reminds us: "The world as a living being—one nature, one soul. Keep that in mind...And how everything helps produce everything else. Spun and woven together." This wisdom encourages us to remember that our actions are interwoven with the greater world, and every choice we make extends beyond ourselves.
When we recognize this, we begin to understand that every choice we make contributes to something much larger than our individual desires or concerns. This understanding should motivate us to live with greater care and intention. Our efforts, no matter how small they may seem, are part of the larger flow of life. And when we align our actions with virtue, we help strengthen the foundation of existence itself.
It’s easy to forget the bigger picture amid our challenges (and successses), but this truth doesn’t diminish our individuality—if anything, it enhances it. We each bring something unique to the table—our own perspectives, talents, and experiences. When we combine these individual gifts with the knowledge that we’re part of something more, we can create something extraordinary.
There’s a balance we need to maintain here. On one hand, we should embrace our uniqueness, the things that make us who we are. On the other, we need to remember that our individuality gains true meaning because it exists within a larger whole. This balance allows us to grow personally while contributing to the world around us. Our best selves are those that lift up not only ourselves but also the world we’re part of.
By striving to do our best in all aspects of life, we not only improve ourselves, but we also elevate those around us. Embracing the fact that we’re part of something larger gives our lives deeper meaning and direction. Whether it’s through small acts of kindness, meaningful relationships, or the pursuit of our goals, we are constantly setting ourselves and those around us up for success.
So, how do we live this out? By embracing both our individuality and our connectedness. By striving to live with purpose, integrity, and compassion—knowing that our actions matter, not just for us but for those around us. When we live this way, we find meaning in our own lives and contribute to the greater good, helping to create a world that is more just, kind, and united.
Quote on recognizing our place within something bigger than ourselves:
“What injures the hive injures the bee.” — Marcus Aurelius
Goal for the Week:
Catch up on some sleep
I've had an incredibly busy few weeks, which has messed up my sleep schedule. This week appears to be less hectic, so I'm planning to catch up and return to a more regular sleep routine.
Awareness — Anthony de Mello (80% done)
Mortality — Christopher Hitchens (38% done)
What I’m listening to (one podcast, one artist, one song):
Coleman Jennings and the Roaddogs
“Linger” — Royel Otis
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Take care,
James
I’m so proud of u and miss you even more. I hope school is everything you want it to be
This gets me going