Illumination

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A powerful question illuminates a person’s path to purpose. But, what is purpose?

I would suggest that there are three ways most of us define purpose. First, and most obvious for Christians, is the one I first learned in the catechism. “To love and serveGod.” Second choice for many would be raising a happy, loving family. Third choice for others would be a successful, meaningful career.

For most of us, loving and serving God happens through loving our neighbors. Hard to measure and how much is enough? Because of aptitude, family expectations and a host of other factors, our career may have chosen us rather than the other way around. And, family? Most of us advancing in age look back and see all the things that were out of our control, things that could have been and should have been. It seems our task in old age is to accept and appreciate the things that went well and let go of the rest.

Tying purpose to loving and serving God is a guaranteed winner, but it is still left to us to determine what “With your whole heart and soul” means in our day-to-day life.

So, is purpose just a giant exercise in accepting, reconciling and letting go? Or is itreally something else that depends on us finding our own truth and our place in God’s plan?

What do you think?

Superbowl Sunday

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It is Superbowl Sunday in America. The contest begins in a few hours. On national TV we will crown the winner. Who will score the most on-air minutes and attention, Taylor Swift or Donald Trump?

Emperor Titus started the Coliseum games in 81 AD.. Roman Citizens were admitted free for life. The theory was that keeping the general public busy with this blood sport would distract people and reduce the chance of a revolution or overthrow. This was a real concern for Roman Emperors “Et tu Brutus?”

So, regardless of who you are cheering for, remember the over-arching purpose and,“Go Blue, Go Red!!”

Keep Learning

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I never considered myself a life-long learner. In fact, school was always a “get it over with” proposition, a way to fulfill requirements or qualify for a particular job. Yet, here I am enrolled in a seven-week online course based on Shirzad Chamaine’s book, Positive Intelligence. And, when I am in Chicago, I am often enrolled in art classes at the Palette and Chisel Art Studio.

I run into many in my age bracket who tell me they lack the energy and ambition to take classes. But, learning is so much more than achievement and passing tests. I think that is one of the big benefits of a Powerful Question. It leads us on a journey of self-discovery and adventure with unlimited possibilities. It has us seeking a more integrated and deeper level of awareness. What a gift to give yourself!

Talk About It

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I spent the past few months refining my Powerful Question workshop for participants in Vistage, a peer-to-peer support organization for CEOs. I have now completed four workshops for Vistage and the reception has been very encouraging. Just a week ago two new Powerful Questions emerged during a workshop and seeds were planted for others. Turns out, there is a great sense of urgency in that group around the idea of purpose.

When you believe strongly that something is special and beneficial you tend to talk about it, and, talk about it more. I attend art classes when I am in Chicago and during a recent one, as usual, I ended up talking about the Powerful Question approach to meaning and purpose. I am now helping two women from that class, and one of their adult sons, find their Powerful Questions. The art teacher already had his and proudly features it on the first page of his website.

If you have found your Powerful Question, do you talk about it? Why? or Why not?
Please share your experiences.