Inspiration by itself does not produce results. Nor does the combination of inspiration and insight, although one might argue that those two in combination can possibly improve someone's character. But as we pursue excellence in our dreams and passions, a third element is necessary. To be diligent is to be focused and intentional. Diligence requires self discipline, for when it comes to being successful at our work or play, who else can we discipline (unless parenting is our focus, but that's a subject in it's own right).
Diligence is the steadfast application of ourselves to the task at hand. Basically, it's good old-fashioned hard work. In a culture where instant gratification is the norm, we are often left with a deflated enthusiasm for the time required to produce excellent results. The drive to be diligent - our energy - is largely fueled by inspiration, whereas our method is produced by insight.
Great leaders who were met at every turn by opposition or desolation, yet refused to give up, were somehow inspired to keep going. Think of William Wilberforce, Martin Luther King Jr., Winston Churchill, and Eva Peron. Their influential actions changed the world, bringing dignity to an oppressed and enslaved humanity.
Mother Theresa, one of the greatest role models of diligence in our time struggled deeply with depression and feelings of Divine abandonment, yet continued her work with relentless focus, courage and energy. In times of doubt and loneliness, sheer determination drove her forward - determination to be true to God's calling in her life. Perhaps it was her vision to accomplish one small deed at a time, rather than great, sweeping successes that gave her the ability to move one foot before the other, over and over. This kind of diligence is difficult to understand; there is no instant gratification in it - yet its results generate a new cycle of inspiration, insight and diligence.
“I do not pray for success, I ask for faithfulness.”
―
Mother Teresa
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