The forming of our character is similar to the art of pottery. We are a hunk of something, spinning around and around, experiencing the same cycles again and again. Yet with the right amount of pressure applied to right spot, after a handful of spins, a new groove emerges, a new shape takes form. Repeat the process in all the right places, and a thing of beauty is brought forth. Our character takes shape.
Alas, such beauty will only last when tended to. For if the clay is left to spin without our guidance, the smallest dissymmetry, after time, can lead to the whole thing toppling over. Worse yet, to put our clay in the kiln prematurely leads to the notion that our work is done. Yes, our past accomplishments may make for a pretty sight, but in locking in our character too early, we leave ourselves fragile and brittle. Of course, we will all end up in the kiln one day, but that is best left for our death beds, until then, we must continue to work, to mould our character.
scott ironmonger 