The Next Phase -Thoughts?

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Does a Powerful Question have practical value? What does it do for you in real life?

Saying it gives you a path to purpose can sound vague and kind of cliché. In an attempt to bring it down to practical terms, let’s look at the kinds of questions people have discovered in their life story and narrative.

Having been at this for over ten years I have noticed certain themes tend to repeat. One of those themes is the concept of belonging. “What does it mean to belong?” has surfaced in different ways for a number of people. Does that Question bring some new understanding or awareness to the person asking it? Does it generate a plan of action that leads to purpose?

I would suggest that belonging is a basic human need, as basic as foods and water. Asking that Question empowers a person to seek, ask, and expect to belong, not just with a certain group or persons, but with whatever is not belonging in themselves. That kind of seeking and expecting can lead to countless possibilities.

I have had the privilege of participating with the Start the Cycle program for a few years now in Marquette, Michigan. This program is directed by Laura MacDonald, a Powerful Question advocate who found her Question in 2011. Laura and her volunteer mentors help dozens of “at-risk” youngsters each year step up to the challenge and fun of mountain biking. As great as that is, the thing that I see most in these young people is the feeling of belonging and being valued. Their faces light up like Christmas trees as they first put on their team jersey before their big race. Some of have never belonged to anything except their family before. That is the real gift that keeps giving, and the real legacy that Laura is leaving behind.

Those are my thoughts. What are yours?


John

The Next Phase

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Since 2011 I have helped people find their powerful questions in classes, workshops and retreats. My goal has always been to help as many people as possible find their question and their path to God’s purpose.

Powerful Question does just that. I am proud to say, there is a growing community of people willing to invest time and energy to help it grow. I, and the My Powerful Question Institute, Board of Directors, are making plans to expand our reach and bring Powerful Question to its next phase.

The Holy Spirit continues to guide this effort. Further proof was provided when my art instructor (yes, I am taking art classes) volunteered to draft a comprehensive business plan for the organization. His name is Steve Puttrich. He is an accomplished artist, inventor and retired corporate designer who told me that his Powerful Question has been front and center in his work for many years. His plan is providing us the template for growth and expansion.

Meanwhile, others are coming forward with ideas and input to make this plan happen. I will admit that I am somewhat scared of what growth may mean, but I am more scared of seeing Your Most Powerful Question not reach its full potential.

You will be hearing more as planning develops. Please pray for these efforts.


John

Overcoming Judgement

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Marcus Aurelias, Roman Emperor and stoic philosopher, is credited with the phrase: “The obstacle is the way.” But what if I am the obstacle because of my judgments and expectations?

If I can instantly see the faults in others, it means I am projecting my own faults and fears onto them. A powerful question gives me the freedom to examine my own life and see myself and others more objectively.

Pursuing my own Powerful Question leads me to understand how self-judgment is embracing my fear, not overcoming it. And, judging others keeps me separate, unconnected and isolated.