A very wise man once told me: “Mike, the more interests you have, the more interesting you will be.” How right my father was. I now have more interests, activities and hobbies than I have time. But I always have time to think; to think about the things I dream about doing: philosophizing, inventing and writing. Winter is the perfect time.
Philosophizing:
Philosophy can be many things: a letter to your local newspaper’s editor, a song or poem, the foundation for activism or martyrdom, an explanation of something unknown or unproven such as a theory or hypothesis.
Philosophy is always unique to its creator. Whether conscious of philosophy or not, nearly all of us are engaged. Some even turn philosophy into the taboo hobby of entering into a political or religious discussion while in the company of friends. Avoid it at all cost, if you can.
Winter gives me the time I need to examine my philosophy, scrutinize it for legitimacy, ponder and modify it for accuracy, test it for objectivity and incorporate it into my writing and into my life. A dark day, cold, white and tranquil is fuel for my mind to function, and philosophize. Many philosophers were inventors.
Inventing:
Though never patented, I love to invent. Some would call it tinkering or a hobby. No matter the synonyms, inventing brings me joy, challenges my mind, forces me to actively create and be original. On occasion, I even build something that works – more times not.
For me, the fun is in the journey not necessarily in the result. Sitting quietly with no distractions and watching the snow drift downward frees my mind to think, to ponder, to consider, and reconsider. I build the products of my imagination in my mind. I can sit for hours with no movement except the intense activity of my thoughts as I construct every detail, confront every hurdle and navigate every roadblock, mentally.
Writing:
I use writing to communicate. There is so much that I need to communicate. Winter gives me time to plan, to outline, to document, research, educate myself and learn so that I can write about the things I dream about doing.
Winter’s blessing to me is time. Time I need to think. To think is a free activity, it costs no money – but it can be a winter hobby to make one wealthy beyond imagination.
More from Michael:
http://voices.yahoo.com/a-really-big-train-wreck-americas-national-10445751.html?cat=3
References:
Dr. J. F. Murphy; “A quotation from 1970’s Verbal Conversation with Son.”