Take the Path of Self-Construction 
by Marlene Buffa

stru-, struct-, -structure, -struction, -structive (Latin: build, construct, place together, arrange).

So much judgment transfers via the media and our social interaction into our subconscious minds. We hear things such as someone is "on a path of self-destruction" or acts as "his own worst enemy." Rarely do we hear accolades of emotional rebirth or those rising from adversity or overcoming obstacles. We need to turn our attention and focus to different routes of growth, different methods of self-evolution and I invite you to consider the use of words both actual and coined for the exploration of this phenomenon we call spiritual growth.

Destruction

The all-too familiar phrase used tirelessly by our culture to exemplify a person not acting in his own best interest. Perhaps we recognize behavioral patterns which provoke weaknesses or a propensity for failure, or perhaps we point our ever-judgmental fingers at others in order to avoid pointing them at ourselves. When we notice the self-sabotage at work in someone else, it's only because it's all too recognizable in our own experience. Nonetheless, destruction surfaces when the demons of fruition of effort begin to rise from the fire of impossibility. We tend to destroy our opportunities through various methodologies which some call coping mechanisms and continue down the spiral staircase of failure.

Soci-struction

As social beings, we adapt to our environment. In doing so, we select the best part of ourselves to demonstrate our competency to the world as a productive member of society. Perhaps we adopt a likeable laugh or a pleasant appearance to fit in with our immediate social strata. Or, sometimes we may change the language we use to fit in with smaller groups of people who can easily relate to the colloquialism. Undoubtedly, aware of our socio-structions or not, we all mold ourselves into an acceptable façade for the approval of our society at large. While some may consider this malleability as selling out or even as disingenuous on it's face, it remains something we rely on for our survival in a world where adaptation ensures survivability.

Construction

The other day, I told a friend, "I'm on a fast path of self-construction!" I'm not tearing down anything as with destruction, I'm working with. "Con" means "with" or "together" and our common use of construction conjures up images of building and civil engineering. Why not engineer a new life for yourself? Work with the structure you already possess and build a new "you" that is positive and makes the best and most of your talents and abilities. When you engage in a process of "with" you cannot simultaneously be destructing anything. Take a look within yourself. In what ways do you put your finest qualities together to create something even greater of yourself? In what ways do you make the most of your lesser characteristics and work with your strengths to present to the world a surprising, revitalized "you?"

Pro-struction

An old joke says pro is the opposite of con and therefore progress is the opposite of Congress. When we look at the Latin root of "gress" we find it means "to walk." Our founding fathers used the term Congress to mean "walk together." Similarly, the word prostruction, coined here for demonstrative purposes, means to build in a positive way. When we build ourselves and our lives using affirmative elements, we can bask in the shining accomplishment of a newly created self, standing tall in the world and strong in foundation. Move forward with only the best ingredients of thought and action you can gather and your prostructive efforts will reward you.

Co-struction 

Like it or not, we don't go through life alone. We may think we do, but every day our interactions with others balance our sense of self with the rest of the world around us. Sometimes our partners help us to co-struct something far larger than the relationship at hand. Together, we can work toward common goals and build even greater contribution to the world. For example, the labors of Marie and Pierre Curie co-structing their efforts bore scientific breakthroughs which changed the world. The ebb and flow, the Yin and Yang of forward momentum and symmetry allow for a dynamic thread of energy which weaves the cloth of creation that cannot be sewn solitarily. Yes, "two heads are better than one," but any size group, working in unison holding similar visions with focus and balance can produce exponential and extraordinary results.

Inter-struction

Often, we're reminded to read "between the lines" when looking for a situational meaning not evident on its surface. The same holds true in inter-structing your life. You may perceive that your gifts and talents are unrelated and when first recognizing your abilities you cannot imagine how they would interact with other characteristics you possess, but step back and see how inter-struction can bring about a more fulfilling expression of your spirit. At first glance, you may not envision a practical use for your sense of artistic taste, but when coupled with your love of cooking and a solid business sense, you may create a fantastic restaurant visited by many patrons who appreciate how you've assimilated your flair. Turn your attitudes away from negating your delicious eclectic nature and treat the world to your unique panache! 

Trans-struction

The Latin basis of "trans" is: across, beyond, through. The most obvious illustration of this trans-struction is a bridge, spanning from one solid foundation to another over an impassable gap. First, you must examine the gap you wish you to overreach and then transtruct your life principals to reach beyond your foundations to establish new footing in the world in which you wish to thrive. Each one of us faces the challenges of impasses. Certain situations, or even emotional or attitudinal roadblocks attempt to prevent us from our greater good. However, when you see beyond the impossible, the way to achieve your destiny clearly surfaces and you reach the other side of the river of your discontent with a new mobility of spirit. Visualize what lies ahead of you and focus on the other side of the issues and be willing to go beyond what you know and transcend into the champion you were born to be.

Pan-struction

Agrippa built the Pantheon in Rome in the early first century AD. His intention was to represent all deities worshipped by the population at the time. The building, an architectural marvel rebuilt in 125AD, still stands today. The prefix "pan" means "everything." When all our self-evolution practices seem weary, we recognize that life itself is everything. We try and fail, or try and succeed and all the while we structure our lives within and outside of our comfort zones to reach a place of peace of mind. Every day we create, we build, we tear down. When we reflect on our lives, we see life itself demonstrates a culmination of pan-struction techniques practiced with deliberation and passion. We continuously reform our lives whether deliberate or unintentional. Like water, our progress always moves us forward. We choose to shape our lives or allow life to shape us - nonetheless, restructuring occurs even at the molecular level. Consider the many ways - and every way - you've structured your life and even when you're presented with circumstances that don't fit into the blueprint of your imagination, you'll never know how they'll benefit you until you build your life around the impossible to manifest the reach-for-the-sky edifice of you!