— DATA. THE OFFSPRING. 43657.0

Data’s statement can stand quite nicely on its own, thank you. Nothing further is necessary…

Except, perhaps, for this footnote:

Religious traditions on many planets have envisioned a kind of personal salvation which claims to be a once-in-a-lifetime event. One’s vow of submission to a certain diety’s authority, or one’s performance of a particularly heroic deed, was enough to secure the Eternal Reward.

Admittedly, there are turning points in our lives. Certain actions or realizations may stand out as life-transforming events. Religions are right to celebrate these decisive moments by giving them some kind of sacred status.

But this kind of recognition also gives the impression that the struggle is over. Or that the struggle is worthwhile only as a means toward an end. Data properly reminds us that our salvation lies in doing, not in having done.

We should be suspicious of life goals that are too close, too easily achieved. The voyage whose destination is always just beyond the horizon is the only one that can reward us eternally.

Perfection is a verb, not an adjective. I reaffirm my commitment to the never-ending voyage of self-discovery and self-improvement.

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The above meditation is taken from Going Boldly on Your Inner Voyage © 1999-2004, IF Books.

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