As far back as I can remember, my mom used to sometimes say to me, “Your enthusiasm will take you far.” I hope it is as far as possible, considering the roots of the word.
The word has taken on various connotations over the years. Enthusiasm, in the sense of positive excitement in an activity or cause, will get you far, but not as far as the original meaning of the word as determined by the word’s roots.
The word appeared in the 16th century, and its etymology reveals its roots: en, meaning “in,” and theos, meaning “god.” Enthusiasm literally means having God within.
While having a positive excitement about activities might take a person far, as my mom declared, even further can one go with spirit of God within. The latter changes how we see life and creation, respond to opportunities and challenges, address doubts and fears, and persist from day to day.
Let us encounter every moment and move into the new year with true enthusiasm. It can take us through this life, and beyond.