What is flourishing?

Flourishing is a natural state for living beings. Wired as we may be for survival, we are also wired with compassion. We are a part of the same natural world that includes trees. Trees make it possible for so many lives to breathe easier simply because they have lived.

Imagine a tree at its prime... What makes this tree flourish?

The tree flourishes because it has healthy roots, its needs are met. Critically, it flourishes within its grove, its community. Other trees compete with it at times for sunlight and space, but they also share nutrients and resources with each other.

Humans flourish when we have dignity and fundamental human rights, but also access to resources and opportunities. When our ecosystem enables us to thrive. And when we are aware of our inner power and know how to use it generatively.

Flourishing is not based in the assumption that all people can or should be well all the time, or that we will not face any hardships. Disease, decay, and decomposting are also a part of the natural life cycle. But when you are struggling, can you access quality care and the right supports? Then I'd argue that you are still flourishing.

This reminds me of one of the most riveting writings I've ever read in my life – "Cancer Chose Me, But I Chose How to Die" by Chika Kapadia. Chika was diagnosed with Stage IV throat cancer in May 2022. He journaled every day after that until he died in August. He was shocked, in pain. But he was also joyful, he felt loved. He was financially comfortable and well cared for. He ended his life at Dignitas in Switzerland, where he chose to undergo physician-assisted suicide.

In his final entry, he wrote: "I feel no differently today than I did the day I was diagnosed 105 days ago. This is what I'd expected to happen. I have peace within and expect the day to go just as I have envisioned it. Mind, body and soul are in sync going forward the next three hours."

And he quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived, this is to have succeeded."

I believe that all of us have the potential to create a flourishing future for ourselves and our communities.