Call Me A Zealot

I've never considered myself as a zealot, but I'm thinking I might need to adjust that thought process. According to the the Oxford Languages Dictionary a zealot is

a person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their religious, political, or other ideals.

While the idea of being fanatical is still a little unsettling, the thought of being uncompromising in my pursuit of my ideals has appeal. And while the definition includes religious and political ideals, I like the fact that it expands to other ideals.

To be sure my religious ideals are important, and to a much lesser extent political ideals, but having and uncompromising pursuit of those ideals, those core beliefs, does seem like a worth while effort.

Moreover, being a zealot seems to be indicative of having zeal in a persons life. We don't talk much about zeal in modern society and that seems unfortunate.

Zeal is often associated with enthusiasm, passion, and a strong sense of purpose or motivation towards a particular goal or endeavor. Having zeal can provide a sense of drive and energy, helping individuals overcome challenges and pursue their aspirations with determination.

Each person's definition of a fulfilling life may differ, and what brings zeal to one person's life may not be the same for another. It's important to reflect on your own values, interests, and goals to determine if zeal is something you desire and how it aligns with your overall well-being.

But remember, it's important to strike a balance in life. While zeal can be beneficial in many ways, excessive or misplaced zeal can potentially lead to burnout, neglect of other important aspects of life, or even unhealthy obsessions. It's crucial to consider one's well-being, relationships, and overall happiness alongside any passionate pursuits.

Finding a healthy and sustainable balance that allows for passion and purpose, while also nurturing other areas of life, can help create a more well-rounded and fulfilling existence. It's essential to listen to your own needs, set realistic expectations, and strive for a harmonious blend of enthusiasm and contentment in your journey.

I think I will ignore the negative connotations of being a zealot, and work towards being more uncompromising in promoting and advocating for those ideals that I believe will make my home, my community and the world around us better.

So don't be afraid to call me a zealot. I'm ok with it.