Good Enough vs. Been Perfect

Gospel


Matthew 5:48

"Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect."

My thoughts


  1. Jesus is speaking about perfect love, not a perfect life.

  2. He contrasts this idea of perfection with the Pharisees' version of perfection, which is based on rigid adherence to rules and appearances.

  3. Jesus' life and actions reflected humanity, not perfection. His behavior was often unpredictable and did not conform to any predefined system of perfection.

  4. When we look at the world that God created, it isn’t perfect in a rigid sense. There’s no "perfect" shape, process, or creature, and certainly no "perfect" person.

  5. The only form of perfection I resonate with is the idea of divine justice: the sun shines equally on both the good and the evil, as Jesus says: "He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matthew 5:45).

My formula


"Be good enough, and if you desire, rush to love perfectly."


Donald Winnicott

"Good Enough Mother"


Why Good Enough is better than Been Perfect according to Donald Winnicott's 'Good Enough Mother' concept:

  1. Good Enough Has More Humanity Than Being Perfect
    Perfection hides flaws and suppresses vulnerability, which are central to our humanity. "Good enough" embraces imperfections, allowing for authentic connections with others and a more relatable presence.

  2. Good Enough Has More Love Than Being Perfect
    Perfectionism fosters harsh self-criticism and judgment of others. "Good enough" encourages self-compassion and acceptance, creating a more loving and understanding attitude toward ourselves and others.

  3. Good Enough Is More Realistic Than Being Perfect
    Perfection is unattainable and unrealistic. "Good enough" aligns with the complexities and imperfections of real life, making it a more achievable and practical mindset for navigating everyday challenges.

  4. Good Enough Is Healthier Than Being Perfect
    The pursuit of perfection leads to stress and burnout. "Good enough" promotes balance, well-being, and sustainability by accepting limits and reducing the pressure to achieve flawlessness.