Finite or Infinite
If life is a giant video game, it is difficult to discern when some of us are playing a finite or infinite game. The theory behind a finite game is that there is a known ending. Playing a longer game with multiple paths is the infinite one. These thoughts can be applied to the methods we use to make a lot of decisions. When the known goal is apparent, the next steps are visible and presumably easier to accomplish. A well marked path leads to the intended point.
Infinitely More
The success of the long game lies in the ability to not have to start over and over after the completion of each finite portion. The difficult part is that the long game has a lot of options and paths and cruel twists of Candyland-like fate involved. You might start out and feel like progress is guaranteed to come up against a surprise obstacle that requires you to make another decision. Each next decision depends heavily on where that specific path may lead and you must consider whether it is the scenic route that might be more enjoyable or the racetrack to a fast result. Options have a double-edge.
Finite Existence
Games don’t go on forever. Existence is finite. Time runs out on the clock and if you didn’t make the right decisions along the way, you may accumulate some regrets. The mountain of regret is what you want to avoid in life at all costs. Although regrets can teach you things, you may not need a constant stream of them to get the message. Take the option for planning better in your long game and you may skip the terminal ones. No one gets to the end wanting more of whatever they avoided.
Spiritual Infinity
It’s a nice thought that there is really a place of infinity. Considering the possibilities without knowing the exact description of infinity gives it the chance to be all things to everyone. This is a spectacular example of what to look forward to because it can take on any shape or size, mean something different to everyone and be full of what would be pleasing. It is a treasure chest full of gems. It is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. And it is a banquet table that doesn’t run out of shrimp. Ever. Next time you have a decision to make, consider your tactic. The first option might get you to the next point. The second option might keep you in the game longer.
What is your infinity like? Which games do you want to play to the known end? Can you consider making decisions that point you toward the next right step?
