“Purpose”; “meaning”; “calling”– these and similar concepts have become very popular in recent times. For many of us, it is no longer enough to work hard to support our family and pay a weekly visit to our place of worship be that mosque or mountain. We want to be a part of “changing the world”; “shifting the needle”; “making a difference”. This is because we are evolving and so is spirituality and faith – thank God.
As it dawns on us that charity (love) should begin at home, but that it certainly cannot end there, we might begin to feel a pull towards something to do that is bigger than ourselves. And we might – especially at the beginning of a year – look to volunteer at a creche or visit the sick or elderly. If we are feeling very brave, we might go on a mission trip or even think to start an NGO.
This can all be very useful, but to what extent is it ego-driven – all about my purpose; my calling; my giving back? Or possibly an appeasement of guilt or a way to shine up my personal brand? In the end, our true purpose – the kind that will have lasting impact – is found and met not by what we do, but by who we are; by how we show up in the world every minute of every day. Is it authentic? Is it about what I say it is? Is it rooted in love? Are my eyes, my mouth, my heart and my hands aligned as I reach out beyond myself?
I have come to this through involving myself in seemingly “big-hearted” works that in the end were much more to do with my ego than the subjects of my seeming love and compassion. This has been a deeply painful realisation.
So now, I am just trying to show up differently. If there is someone selling litchis at the tollgate I will buy the litchis because this is someone’s livelihood. Do I need hangers? Perhaps not – but I can afford to buy the hangers. I will buy them as this will feed someone’s child. If I hear that people have lost everything in a fire in a small town or a flood somewhere, I will send what I can. So, what I am trying to do is meet the need that meets me, whether that is a national news story or a car guard who has perhaps done very little to guard my car.
Please note: I am generally awful at this. I get very irritated and frustrated and I often find myself miserly and tight spirited. But I believe that my weak efforts to show up well are better-intentioned and hence more impactful than my grand gestures. I also believe that they mix with grace to create an impact beyond themselves.
You always challenge me Justy! Thank you!
It’s such a challenge for us all Gail! Much love. X
That is brilliant Justin.. .my husband Phil and I discuss this very subject so often .. We believe Our calling is where God has placed us and we can impact the lives of those around us in the everyday rhythm of life.. .its about being mindful of our thoughts word and actions and the small differences we can make each and everyday to those around us.
I love it!! Being mindful….Thanks Michelle
Love this article Just. I can’t for one second believe you ever let your ego rule your actions.
Here’s then to a 2019 of a spotlessly clean garden as I’ll have more grass brooms to last me a lifetime, and meeting friends through the purchase of more ironing board covers I can give away!
I love this concept.
The power of simplicity. Xxxx
Sands YOU of all people I know truly live this life!!
I definitely agree that life with bring to you what you need to deal with, and I think we have an obligation to deal with and help where we have the means. This is something we should deal with as a matter of course. The question is whether that is enough?
In this age where we are confronted with so much misery from all over the planet, how do we cope with this, and where do we start with our intentions and actions to improve the life of others?
I have found it useful to seek out, i.e. not just fortuitously bump into a situation that requires my engagement. This does mean going out of one’s own comfort zone and connecting with the “other” to find growth and challenges that could make a difference. So this is not totally a selfless act.
Then the act of showing up and being open to what the situation needs rather than bringing your ego intention into the space is more appropriate.
Totally agree with this Thomas. My experience has been what Richard Rohr puts as…We don’t think ourselves into a new way of living but rather we live our way into a new way of being. As we “be different” we seek out more intentional ever bolder ways of being and this necessarily involves giving more of ourselves (else what’s the difference?!). With every act of showing up warts and all within a broken world I find myself wanting to show up more…but I think it usually begins small for most of us.
And you are right it is not totally selfless…?
Purpose? This is something that bugs many people. Me, I believe that our fundamental purpose in life is to illustrate God or godliness wherever we show up or wherever the Universe, God, the Great Spirit place us. It has nothing to do with race, color, creed or financial status.
And we often give by simply being present in any particular moment and time. By just being, we provide the energy and movement to support change, growth and opportunity for someone else. If one cannot give/share of yourself – your beingness – don’t give anything else unless of course, your intention is pure.
Shew…I love this Matthys!”By just being, we provide the energy and movement to support change, growth and opportunity for someone else” Thanks for sharing