By any chance, have you ever read, “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” by Robert Pirsig? If you haven’t, join the club. But I am supposed to. In fact, I have to.
Back in the day, when I was a student at USL in Lafayette, my English professor had us individually write up a contract of books that we would read for our semester grade. I came up with my list and contracted for an A. At the end of the semester each student was to meet with the professor to go over the contract.
When I met with Dr. Cox, he read over my contract, and asked me about the different books and projects. We then came to “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.” It was on the list. He asked me if I had read the book. I admitted that I had not. Showing great kindness, Dr. Cox then asked me, “Well, do you promise to read it before you die?” I promised, and he mercifully gave me the contracted grade.
The only problem is, I still haven’t read it. I haven’t forgotten about it. I am looking at the book right now as I write these words. It is the same old green-covered paperback from 1975. Talk about procrastination!
I can hear clearly the admonishment of Scripture: “One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.” (Proverbs 18:9)
That seems a little bit strong, but I am motivated once again to read Pirsig’s book. I have been told over the years that it is really good, with a lot of meaning and life lessons to it. The clock is ticking. I am going to read it. I really am. I have to. A promise is a promise.
So, just wondering, are you perhaps procrastinating about something today? A gentle reminder: the clock is ticking.