The Theory of Use and Disuse

Photo Credit: TONG KBP

When I was younger, my priest told me the story of the hermit who, disillusioned with the happenings of the world, moved into the wilderness for a deeper concentration and connection with God. Away from the distractions of the world, life was relatively easy. In fact, it was never supposed to be this hard. We realize that though our wants are many, our needs are very few.

He intended to be there for a while before he went back to the society. But time passes slowly in the wilderness. With all he wanted in a place, there was no need to rush.  

He quickly set up his tent and made friends with a peaceable rock. It shall be the rock-dation for every other thing that would happen. An endless cycle of worship. Eat. Sleep. What else does contentment mean? 

Archaeological Park of Pompeii

One day, when he thought he had had enough, he got up to leave. And fell. He got up again. And fell again. His bones must have been too friendly with the rock. He looked from the rock to his legs, thinking there ought to be a difference. Far into the wilderness and even further away from help, what did it matter if your body grew stiff whilst you still have life in you. 

 

The story was told at a children's mass in my childhood. The morale had been simple. To use our gifts before they decay or become stonified. Even if it seemed to be as natural as walking. If we can have it, then we can use it. To whom more is given more is expected.  

Photo Credit: Giuseppe CUZZOCREA

A little too young for my age, I didn't have to think too much. I swallowed it quickly. Like I intended to do to my Sunday rice. 

I had more pressing needs. My siblings could be on their way home right now, back to my Mother's pot of stew. And I would rather be the first.

Years later, grown up, I thought of the story often. How sedentary lifestyles could lead to atrophied muscles. It reminded me of my biology class. The Lamarck's theory of use and disuse. It proposed that organisms change to adapt to their environment. The frequently used organs grow stronger. Better. While those not used slowly lose their functionality and soon vanish. 

Photo Credit: National Geographic Snakes

If we go further with this theory, we will intentionally stumble upon the snake's evolution process. How the snake's ancestors walked the earth for thousands of years, till their forelimbs easened to only hindlimbs. Till they just slittered. 

You can find criticisms for the Lamarck's theory. Doubt the veracity of this childhood tale. My point remains same: vessels have been known to rust from disuse. And you, no less. 

I hope you remember to throw yourself out there. To try out new things. Grow your appendages without restraints. I hope you discover your gifts. Uncover your tentacles. Spread your wings. Fly!

Soar higher. The sky is only a stepping stone. Cheers to a life of no regrets. 

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 To every rose that grew from concrete; blossom!