If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
African Proverb
I’ve heard this saying in many variations, and I appreciate that it emphasizes the value of having a community. However, I feel like there are parts of it left unsaid…
…Do you know where you’re going? Your speed and distance covered become insignificant if you don’t know where you’re headed. If you’re just up for an adventure then none of it even matters – fast/slow/solo/with a crowd.
…If you choose to go with a crowd, are they going the same place as you? or even in the same direction? The same way you can’t force a horse to drink is the same way you can’t force a person/people to want what they don’t already for themselves. Maybe you’ll go far, but I highly doubt that the journey will be enjoyable or even worth it.
…Still on this crowd matter, are the people with you there to cheer you on, hold you up when need it? Or are they just there as witnesses/monitoring spirits to your journey; only ever ready to point out when you stumble? What type of crowd do you need for your journey?
…You might be going together, but the unique beings that we are means that everyone’s journey is also different. It’s great if you’re all able to go the distance together, but if it comes to a point where you have to walk alone, or with fewer people, or go faster, then so be it.
Set your destination, check your crew, and go together (if you must), but remember your life’s journey is yours alone.
differentshadesofbrown 