I am thankful for many of the monks out there in the world; they prove that it is possible to put aside the desire for material and physical gains and possessions. They can devote and dedicate their life and their work to a higher purpose, defining and finding a sense of self-worth that transcends earthly ideas and ideals. They shore up their worth internally.
I think the saddest people always try their hardest to make people happy. Because they know what it feels like to feel absolutely worthless and they don’t want anybody else to feel like that.
-Robin Williams
Think about how far back the role of monks go in the history of humanity. Almost 2,000 years. In this modern day and age, I do not think that such a practice is sustainable for everyone, at least anytime soon if ever. However, we can still learn plenty from monks. We can be thankful for the lessons that they teach and the guidance that they give. Ponder upon what drew them to such a lifestyle and practice. I have ideas as well as answers in some specific cases, and they run the range of possibilities. That is also a beauty of self-worth; there is no one-size-fits-all answer for it. Which fits you best, though? That is what matters. Feel your best; feel worthwhile. Then, share it with others, and help them when and where you can please. I believe that will be a worthy path.
Thou art even as a finely tempered sword concealed in the darkness of its sheath and its value hidden from the artificer’s knowledge. Wherefore come forth from the sheath of self and desire that thy worth may be made resplendent and manifest unto all the world.
-Bahá’u’lláh
Many monks excel at setting aside their selves, and this idea will not make sense to many currently. I think it feels foreign and scary to most people. I did not understand it as easily in the past as I do now. It is not easy to set aside ego, but it is worth it. We can really begin to see our full and true worth when we begin to examine our unsheathed self.
Are you willing to begin some self-examination?
What if it will stop you from more damnation?
You do not need to run off and join a monastery.
Embrace more peace and ignore anything eerie.
You can learn from them while in your own home.
That is one worth of YouTube, not some old tome.
Maybe it is wise. Maybe it is dumb. Time will tell.