"This is the true joy in life - being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap; being a force of nature instead of a feverish selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy."
-George Bernard Shaw
I saw this on a friend's blog and loved it. How many of us (myself included---see a previous blog posting, "My Happy Place," where all I did was gripe) complain that life isn't great or life isn't happy, yet we do nothing to further our joy in life?
I firmly believe we are sent to this earth to fulfill a purpose. Some are blessed with abundance, some are not. Some are blessed with great family and friends, others struggle with their familial lot and friends are scarce.
Still some are blessed with a knowledge of who they are and what their purpose is in life. Many realize this purpose along the road in life (the lucky ones discover it early), and some never realize it. Why don't they? Are they too busy looking inward?
At this time I realize I have had two true purposes in life that have brought me the joy Shaw (see quote above) and I are talking about---being a mother and teaching. (This in no way is a reflection on my hubby or our marriage. I love him. He is my life and brings me much joy. I'm talking about that inner feeling of purpose we get in a church calling, a career, motherhood, aunthood, grandmotherhood, etc.)
I had no idea either teaching or motherhood would fulfill me this way. I am blessed. I am grateful. Are there days I forget my purposes in life and gripe? Yes. Many days. But overall I know I am in the right place at the right time doing what I am supposed to be doing. That feeling amazes and comforts me. I have a mighty purpose in this life. I am a force of nature for good. I have joy.
Copyright 2011 Corrina L. Terry
Thanks to Stacey Erickson who posted this quote on her blog first!
Photo credits: http://www.soulsisters40plus.blogspot.com/
http://www.jmillerfam.blogspot.com/
Excellent quote and even better insight. I am sure you fulfill your calling as a mother and teacher in excellent fashion.
ReplyDeleteWonderful! The things that are really worth doing are the challenging ones. They bring pain, worry, griping, but are the most satisfying in the end.
ReplyDeleteGreat quote, it reminds me, in a way, of Sis Hinkley's quote about making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and helping others, making room in our lives to enlarge ourselves via service. Good thoughts!!
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