is not the same as a Zest for Living. A zest for life is far more impersonal, abstracted than a zest for living. The latter requires, demands an involvement. A zest for living invites you in and then consumes any pretense or falsifying of who you are. But then, that’s my romantic definition. However, it is never an abandonment to license bad thinking or behavior. In some respects, you are eve more responsible when your living is defined this way.
My definition includes a delight when waking in the morning. An immediate involvement with the day, an engagement with life. Yes there are plans and objects to attain, but they really are part of who you are and not an extension apart from you. ‘Plans and objects to attain’ does not eliminate the spontaneous or serendipitous because these add zest, add that unexpected but invited inclusion into the day. They don’t supersede the plan, but become part of the enhanced plan.
Now… do I always do this? Of course not. But it is my mindset so it doesn’t take long for me to get to this state if I wake less than overjoyed. I believe that a zest for living is a frame of reference, a way to start the day regardless of what you already know you’ll have to face. I have found that if my attitude is as positive as possible, then the outcome has a greater chance to be what I hope for than if I have a different mindset. Besides, I have never found that a negative outlook accomplishes much.
Yes, I do believe there is a relationship between this attitude and an abundant life. Quoting Google:
“The term “abundant life” comes from the Bible verse John 10:10b, I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.’ “More abundantly” means to have a superabundance of a thing. “Abundant life” refers to life in its abounding fullness of joy and strength for mind, body, and soul.”
See how the secular world defines abundant? ‘Superabundance’ – life in its abounding fullness of joy and strength for mind, body, and soul. For me, this is a much more effective mindset. Going into (fill in the blank) is not a good foundation for success.
Scripture lists more than 21 verses that speak to abundant life, a life experienced with zest. This is always available for us… but we must choose to live this way. I do know that it will help us cope, handle those tests, trials, and deserts that find their way into our living. When we can remember: Proverbs 3: 5-6; Psalm 16:11; Ephesians 2:8-9; then we are strengthened.
