Covet by Jeanne Klovdahl

Covet

According to the definition given in the Macquarie Dictionary the word 'covet' is 'to desire wrongfully,' or 'to wish for, esp.  eagerly.' From my perspective it is a longing for that which we believe we want. It is usually beyond our grasp and we know we can't, or shouldn't, have it. We think if only…then our lives would be complete - maybe even perfect. While striving for this illusive quarry we might develop an attachment to:

Winning a prize/medal/award through which we receive approval from others, including wide acclaim. If we long for material accoutrements to impress others our emphasis could be placed on outward appearances, thus enhancing our self image. We may admire another person to such an extent that we dream if we could have what they have or do what they can do we might become more like that person, i.e., a person we seek to emulate.

The irony of actually fulfilling our desire is that we might find ourselves asking, "well, what's next?" and then realising that maybe nothing's next, except possibly more striving. How do we know when we've 'arrived?' Everything in life has an upside and a downside: everything.

My main experience in coveting was when I actually took something I desired but felt I couldn't earn. Then I had to hide it away, and eventually admit to what I had done, sheepishly return it and humbly apologise. To make matters worse I kept running into that person, bringing the memory of my treacherous deed right back again!


Jeanne Klovdahl

17th April 2016