The Best Beards and Moustaches in the World

[James]

The Best Beards and Moustaches in the World


I wasn't going to post this because, other than showing lots of cool beards and moustaches, it has nothing to do with the point of this forum.  That is, until I thought about the opening line.  "I can't claim this, like, fucking holy mission or anything..."  I felt connected with that thought.  Let me explain.


I'm sick of people wanting me to join their "holy mission".  I don't want to save the world.  All through life people have pulled me to save the world through religion, politics, environmentalism, capitalism, volunteerism, etc.  All of which have their place, but at my core I just want to enjoy life.  Part of what gives me enjoyment in life is doing what helps others and the world, but I'm not personally responsible for saving them or it.  This is something that's been coming to me over the past couple years.


How this connects with MMM is that I don't see him as feeling he is on a "fucking holy mission" either.  Yeah, he'd love to see the world become better by following his lead, but if they don't he will keep enjoying the hell out of life in all humility and badassity.  His mission isn't some self centered hedonistic ambivalence, but it's not holier than thou, fundamentalist, only I have the truth preaching either. There are others who I respect in this regard as well, but none of them encapsulate this idea better than MMM.


I don't agree with MMM all the time, but I respect his outlook and attitude.  Obviously this is my take, maybe he does feel like he's on some fucking holy mission...  but I'm not.

[arebelspy]

Well said, James.

Also, that's some serious facial hair.

[Bakari]

"Part of what gives me enjoyment in life is doing what helps others and the world, but I'm not personally responsible for saving them or it. "

Well, sure.  "Be the change you want to see in the world"

One can go flying around the world giving lectures about environmentalism, but it seems counterproductive to me.  Some people may change because you cajole and threaten, but others resist it even more.  The other option is to lead by example, live your values, and answer any questions people may have if they happen to come to you.

Re: holy fucking missions - he has casual profanity in common with MMM too

 :-{D
;-{)

[Mr. Minsc]

So, I searched up beards and I found this year and a half old thread.

My view, which is becoming more and more cemented, is you can not go around "saving" people.  If people  want to listen they will, otherwise your words fall on death ears.  Like you James, my goal in life is becoming ever clearly defined as simply enjoying it.  I will speak of my beliefs, if this plants a seed in others which in turn spreads via them to others then I say awesome.  No need to go around saving the whole world, life can be much simpler than that. :)

[Stasher]

Great post James. Remember the post a short while ago on MM blog, focus on your Circle of Influence hoping that it has an outcome on your Circle of Concern. Be the best person you strive to be and le others think what they want. This is how I lead my life and it has treated me well.