Is Having [a] Passion a Good Thing?

Today's blog is about etymology. I have been thinking a lot about the word passion.

In today's society, we use this word in a couple of different ways. First, we are told to "pursue our passions." Passion is often synonymous with interests or the thing that drives us. This word is pregnant with anticipation and potential. It is the stuff of our dreams. Perhaps I have a passion for baseball, or coin collecting, or writing. Passion is deeply emotive and personal.

We also use the word sexually. Passion is sensual and deeply erotic. For example, "Her passion is for her husband," or, "He kissed her passionately," or, "His was a crime of passion." 

In both usages, passion is active. Yet, if we look at the word itself we would see that it is related to being passive. Huh?

The root of the word is Latin -- pati -- which has been most often in Christian theology for enduring or suffering. It is usually connected to Christ's suffering on the cross, which was a suffering he had to endure or experience. Passion was neither sensual or reflective of a person's wants or interests.

 

So is having a passion for something a good thing? 

Of course, words change meanings and context over time, so the word isn't the same as Christ's passion. Yet, a hint of the old remains. When we are passionately in a sensual experience, we do passively give into that moment. When we have a deep interest in something, we passively give ourselves over to that thing. So, the original meaning is there, but it has been disconnected from suffering. But, if we give ourselves over to these things, we can indeed become slaves to them and while not suffering in those things, they can distract from other important things and in that we may suffer. 

Point? 

Temper and modulate.

Don't let passion become the be all and end all. Life is bigger than a few pet controls. 

Blessings.