The Difference Between Work & Play

28 posted on July 28, 2009

POSTED IN: Blog Posts, Makes You Think

I’ve always counted myself fortunate enough to be able to pursue my follies. I credit my parents for giving both my brother and I the opportunities to explore our interests and develop passions. I was taking oil painting lessons at 12 years old, doing public speaking by 14 and started doing freelance design by 16.

Like everyone, I’ve paid my dues in my fair share of jobs that were less-than-enjoyable (shoveling horse stalls, bailing hay, blown-in insulation). But I’ve also been fortunate enough to have some pretty amazing gigs through the years too. I learned about making the most of every opportunity I had but I couldn’t quite put it into words until I read this quote:

The master in the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labor and his leisure, his mind and his body, his information and his recreation, his love and his religion. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence at whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing. To him he’s always doing both.

James A. Michener (U.S. novelist, 1907-1997)

I’m sorry but that quote is freaking awesome (and yes, it’s just another way of saying Eccl. 9:10 and Col. 3:23-25). If I can train my children to live that kind of life I’ll die in peace knowing that they will be able to succeed at whatever they attempt.

How about you? Can others tell the difference between your work and your play?

[photo: Heather]

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July 28, 2009

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1 bill (cycleguy) said:

I definitely think they would know the difference because of the clothes! somehow I think spandex cycling shorts and a cycling jersey might be slightly frowned upon (by my wife). But my people also know I enjoy life and it is made more enjoyable by my play.
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July 28, 2009

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2 Matt @ The Church of No People said:

That’s a great quote and an amazing, if difficult way to live life. It’s hard to be content with those really tough jobs that you’re thankful are in your past. I’ve got my share of them too. It makes me very thankful that we have people who can do those jobs, and I pray a lot that those people are content at what they do, so I can do what I do.
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July 28, 2009

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3 Brad Ruggles said:

I should point out (because I’m sure someone will sooner or later) that not everyone has the privilege of working somewhere that they enjoy. Heck, some people would be happy to be working anywhere right now.

However, it’s important to note that this quote isn’t necessarily referring to those privileged people who can work at those amazing places. It’s talking about a mentality for how we approach life and whatever we do. That is art of living that requires attitude and perspective.
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July 28, 2009

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4 Dad and Mom Ruggles said:

Well spoken son.
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July 28, 2009

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5 Bill Wolfe said:

What a great post Brad. Love that quote. I’ve been on a kick recently to live a more intentional life. This post sums it up.
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January 7, 2010

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6 april lavenia A. Añasco said:

it is so very nice i can relate it because God is in inside the thought
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May 1, 2011

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7 Keli said:

Love that quote! I finally started making a living at doing what I used to play at. I’ve always been positive and basically enjoyed my past jobs but it is amazing what it feels like when work and play feel the same. I hope everyone at some point can feel that blessed!
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July 12, 2011

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8 Dave said:

Thanks. This is so inspiring. I love my work as a writer but I think I should put more passion to it…and I should not think of it as work.
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August 22, 2011

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9 Stephanie said:

I enjoy the work I do so it is not truly considered work. I am trying to teach my kids they can do whatever they want but it will take hard work. Too much of what is taught today is that if it’ hard then try something else. And that is sad.
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September 12, 2011

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10 Ray said:

Excellent post. I love the quote. It reflects a life that most people only dream of.

I believe if we live for Jesus and live for Him then by His Spirit we are enabled to experience it.