"نحن لا ننجح في تغيير الأشياء حسب رغبتنا، ولكن تتغير رغبتنا تدريجياً."

Sometimes in life, we don’t get what we want. We try to change things around us—to mold reality to fit our desires. But often, instead of changing the world, we find that our desires themselves shift. This idea reflects the ebb and flow of human aspiration and acceptance.

Let's step back in time to understand this better. Marcel Proust, a French writer, said this in the early 20th century. He observed that our deepest desires and passions can evolve over time. Maybe he was thinking about the way he—and people around him—experienced longing and disappointment, only to find that their desires morphed into something new as they adapted to their circumstances.

Consider a real-world example: Think about someone who dreams of becoming a famous musician. They pour their heart into their music, playing gigs at small venues, hoping to be noticed. Yet, despite their efforts, fame remains elusive. Over the years, rather than becoming bitter, they start to enjoy the smaller, more intimate performances. They find joy in teaching others to play, in the connection they feel with their audiences, however small. Their initial desire for fame transforms into a love for the craft itself and the community it builds.

So, how can you apply this nugget of wisdom in your life? Start by recognizing that it’s okay if your desires change. Life isn’t static, and neither are you. Embrace the evolution of your wants and needs. When you find yourself frustrated by unmet desires, pause. Reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown. Sometimes the things we think we want aren’t what we need in the long run.

Imagine a young professional, eager to climb the corporate ladder. They work long hours, eyeing the corner office. But after years of stress and missed family moments, they start to question their goal. Slowly, they realize they desire balance more than status. They switch to a less demanding role, find time for hobbies and loved ones, and gain a new sense of fulfillment.

Here’s a personal aside: I once dreamed of traveling the world, living out of a backpack, experiencing new cultures every day. But as time passed, I found that I valued deeper connections over fleeting adventures. My desire shifted from constant travel to building a community at home. I still travel, but now I cherish the stability and relationships I’ve formed.

So, remember, it’s perfectly human for our desires to change. Embrace it. Life is a journey, and sometimes the path you start on isn’t the one you stay on. And that’s okay. Desires are like rivers—they bend, they flow, they find new courses. And often, the new direction brings unexpected joys and fulfillment.