I have thought deeply about purpose my entire life, but especially the last five years. When I first did the institute for self-actualization workshop in 1989, I heard George Bernard Shaw’s poem, “This is the true joy in life being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one.” When I attended Tony Robbins’ Date with Destiny 25 years later, I discovered that my primary question, the one I asked myself continuously, was “What is the purpose of my life?” It haunts me still as I am working through my midlife transition. “What is my purpose in the second half?” I asked myself.
I’m starting to look at it differently. Maybe there isn’t some massive, unique purpose for me that I have to find and execute perfectly if I am to be OK. Today, reading in a book about my beloved Taos mountains, there was a quote, attributed to Heraclitus, that says the purpose of life is to be of benefit and to appreciate beauty. This rings true to me.
A few weeks ago, I was on a Chip Conley Fireside Chat, with Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love and Big Magic and I had the chance to ask her about purpose. She said she doesn’t even use that word anymore because it is too loaded, too heavy. We feel we must find our unique purpose, master it, effect millions of people, and make a fortune doing it if we are to be a success. That is too much! She has replaced that word with “service.” I like that. George Bernard Shaw’s poem could change to “The true joy in life is being of service to others.” My primary question could change to “How can I serve this moment?” These are much lighter and easier to comprehend and execute. This still comes up short of a happy life because just serving doggedly or out of obligation is not a life I want. But, when you add appreciation of beauty, which is awe, wonder, and gratitude, then life starts to feel good. Whatever you are doing this weekend, notice and let yourself be awed by the beauty around you, whether it is nature, art, a heartfelt connection, or a smile. And do something just for the benefit of others or your community. Do what the moment calls for even if it is as simple as smiling at a stranger or picking up some litter. This will bring joy to your weekend, and your life.
Thanks for reading and have a happy Labor Day!
Art
#purpose #service #joy #ElizabethGilbert #ChipConley #happylife
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