PROMPTS & PRACTICES | GROOMING CURIOSITY
“Groom one’s curiosity like a high-spirited thoroughbred.” Diane Ackerman
Curiosity is like unopened seeds of our soul that have yet to see the daylight. Being human means acknowledging this vast potential and service. Curiosities have led to historic original breakthroughs in science, technology, arts, sports, etc. Curiosities also opened doors for many to pursue one’s originality. Initially, discovering our originality through curiosity is often accidental, providential, and is a product of afterthought. Paying attention to what-ifs and heart tugs is crucial in taking the first steps toward unlocking our path toward originality. Granted, not all curiosities lead to something productive or helpful. It is ok. At least now we know. It is also paying attention to our heart when pursuing our curiosities. How is our heart responding, resonating, and experiencing in pursuing curiosities?
I would say one requirement of discerning whether to pursue a certain curiosity is to ask oneself whether this is self-serving to a point that it would harm others. If it is at least neutral, then I would give it a green light. You groom it like a high-spirited thoroughbred, ready to break out into the racetrack, to the wide-open fields, and to the world. Take your curiosities seriously enough to at least pursue them. Do not try to rationalize your curiosities. Grooming means investing intentional time and effort.
Once a seed of curiosity turns into a budding flower of passion that beckons your further attention and your name, then you must pursue the passion.
Practices
List a few potential curiosities you want to pursue in the next several months. Pursue them thoroughly and watch how your heart responds.
Do something you have not done before. Go somewhere you have not gone before. Strike random casual conversations with friendly strangers. Meet people from other cultures. Discerning your curiosities can be risky and vulnerable, but the process is worth the risk.
Discovering your curiosities is like a treasure hunt. Usually, the movement goes from general to more specific areas of curiosities. Do not be afraid to chase “a few rabbits” along the way. As is the case, it can also be accidental. Learn to listen to your inner intuitions.