"I believe in the flesh and the appetites"

Believing in the flesh and the appetites is really about acknowledging and embracing our human desires and needs—both physical and emotional. It's like validating that deep craving for a slice of chocolate cake or recognizing the thrill of an adventurous hike. It's saying that these urges and feelings are not just okay; they're essential to being human.

Historically, this quote might be rooted in a time when people were often taught to suppress their desires in favor of higher principles or spiritual growth. Think back to more puritanical times when people were told to deny their fleshly urges. This statement acts almost as a rebellion against that, promoting the idea that our physical and emotional desires are just as important as any spiritual or intellectual pursuit.

Imagine you’re at a family gathering, and there’s this huge spread of delicious food. You’ve been working hard at your job, and maybe you’ve been dieting or watching what you eat. But you see your favorite dish—your grandma’s lasagna, the one she’s famous for. Your mouth waters just thinking about it. Now, if you’re someone who believes in the flesh and the appetites, you’d understand that it's not just food on that plate; it's a combination of love, tradition, and joy. You’d allow yourself to dive in, savoring each bite, relishing in the comfort and connection that food brings.

Applying this wisdom to your everyday life can be pretty straightforward. Start by paying attention to your body and your emotions. If you're tired, let yourself rest even if there’s a long to-do list staring back at you. If you're craving connection, call a friend or hug your partner tightly. These are not luxuries—they’re your body’s way of telling you what you need to thrive.

Here’s another scenario to bring it home. Imagine you’re swamped with work, running from one meeting to another, your brain buzzing with deadlines. Suddenly, you remember you promised your kid you’d take them to the park. You feel guilty for even considering it because of the mountain of work piling up. But hold on—remembering that your needs and wants are valid, you decide to carve out that time. You take them to the park. You push them on the swing, and hear their laughter ringing out like music. For that hour, you’re not thinking about work. You’re present, you’re fulfilled, and you’re living fully in that moment.

So, the next time you feel a strong urge or desire, don’t rush to dismiss it. Think of your body and emotions as your inner guide. They’re pointing you toward what you need to feel more alive and connected. Embrace your cravings, your hungers, your thirsts. They’re all part of what makes you human. Even in our fast-paced, hyper-productive world, it's vital to remember that we have bodies and hearts that need tending to. So, go ahead, have that slice of cake, take that nap, cuddle a bit longer, and let yourself feel deeply. It’s all part of the beautiful mess of being human.