Utter Imperfection

In all the years I spent looking for it, I never did find my purpose. I listened to Oprah and followed her instructions. Nada. I surfed from job to job. From one volunteer position at one community organization to another. Still, nothing.

I read books. Listened to tapes. As I type this, I’m just now remembering a Tony Robbins rally, too. Nope. Still, nowhere. I also prayed for a clear path or a sign that would point me towards my pupose—never discerning a clear answer in return.

Instead, what happened was eventually my purpose found me. By way of the most searing pain I’ve ever been subjected to. This purpose of mine wanted my full attention and wasn’t about to waste its time or risk not securing it so it went big with a blindside trauma—stopping just short of what felt like a near lethal amount of heartache.

If you’re also searching high and low for what you’re meant to be doing while you’re here, take note of what’s happening around you. Notice what seizes your attention and stops you in your tracks. Become hyper-aware of what makes you say, “Oh, hell no!”

What is it in this world that squeezes your heart in a vice grip? What makes the pilot light inside you combust into all-consuming flames? What injustice threatens your sanity? What can you not stand to see happen even one more time to one more soul?

Your answer is also your purpose.

And I don’t think we’re meant to find it. I think we’re meant to recognize it. By our sky-rocketing heart rate and rivers of tears. By our crushed spirit and a looming sense of hopelessness. By being knocked to the ground and made to feel like we’ve a boot on our chest keeping us there.

When you feel like that because of what’s happened to you, what’s happening to others, too—that, love, is your purpose. And once you finally recognize it, all you have to do is say, “I’ve been waiting for you.” Then, just begin.