I often imagine what ten years down the road will be like. I do that to right my activity in the present. When I think about ten years down the road, I realize which actions I take part in now have greater meaning and which actions are rather meaningless.
Loved ones
Thinking ahead, sadly reminds me that some who I hold dear will likely no longer be living ten years down the road. With my advancing age, I hope to be living, but one never knows. While a grim reality, this truth helps me to know that it's really important that I appreciate and enjoy my loved ones. The time I spend with them is precious and they, to me, are life's most precious elements. Hence, making time for loved ones takes priority in all that I do.
Humanity
I often say that everywhere I look I see potential for betterment. I love what freedom and good living can do for individuals and society--I want people to live without undue suffering, pain, hate, and divide, and I want to live in a world that continually strives to uplift humanity rather than hurt and harm others. Knowing this, rights my life ship in the direction of doing what I can to work for human rights. This is important to me. I want to live in a humane world and I want my children and grandchildren to live in a humane world too.
Healthy recreation
I simply love good times, and I love to be happy. I believe most would agree with these sentiments, and when we think about life, we realize that healthy recreation makes us happy and gives life meaning and joy. Unfortunately due to greedy marketing campaigns, many of us have been tricked into thinking that unhealthy pursuit is good for us. We have to unravel that, and refocus on the kinds of life events that truly elevate who we are as individuals and what we do. Healthy recreation improves all of our lives.
Good living
When people suffer, we all suffer. In life, there will be suffering, but we can work to reduce that suffering substantially with a focus on what it means to live well. Simply, we know that clean water, clean air, clean soil, nutritious food, quality health care/education, suitable homes/communities, and good relations amongst people are the foundation of good living. We can work to make those elements alive and well for people. It won't be perfect, but we can do a very good job at this. Good living is important to me, and something I will work towards.
So in ten years, how do I imagine my life. I imagine that I'll do all I can to live a simple and good life with the attributes above, and I'll continue to educate myself and get involved in ways that contribute to humanity in positive and uplifting ways. In the meantime, I'll value the people I love, work to support those people and my community, and continue to learn and speak out about the many ways we can live positively and productively on our own and with one another. That's what matters to me.