Telos

     Aristotle used the term telos to describe the intrinsic essence of a person. In other words, it is the mysterious matter in the acorn that is unique to that oak to be. This is all written in a book I have been skimming lately called "Simplicity Parenting". The book says: "A little grace is needed, after all, for them to develop into the people they're meant to be, especially in a world that is constantly bombarding them (and us) with distractions... These stresses distract from the task of childhood: an emerging developing sense of self."

     I think we are bombarded even more this time of year. Have you noticed how many people are out and about in a foul holiday mood? I suggest we take a little time and think about telos. If you have kids, what is the individual essence that they were born with? What is your own telos? And how do we honor it? I think quiet and listening is a good place to start.

     My daughter's telos: She was a kicker in the womb. And she is a very active and enthusiastic little person still. Her eyes were wide open and focused from the day she was born. She is a visual learner, I think. Language has taken its time to emerge. She also has a great sense of humor. That is a little bit of her acorn story. What's yours?