Sunday, January 29, 2012

My purpose is ___________.

Photo:  www.creepypasta.wikia.com
My talented friend, Tameka Mullins (Lyric Fire blog) posted this today on her Facebook page:


My purpose is _____________.
She shared her own impression of her raison d'etre in a beautiful manner and I loved the concept.  I dashed off my own reply:


Good question! To write. To love. To recognize the beauty in those around me and give them a shining mirror to see their own beauty. To remember that my words have power and as such, to use them mindfully. To share my heart in an authentic manner. To see those obscure yet breathtaking moments around me and scribe them, painting them onto paper. I do much of this via the medium of writing, but I also do it by simply being Me.  - SDS 1/29/2012
I was immediately struck by the thought that this would make a fun blog post, so I zipped off an inquiry and request to Tameka to use her idea here.  She like the idea and here I am, tapping away at my keyboard.

It's an interesting, thought provoking question, yes?  My purpose is ______________.  The fascinating thing is that at any given moment, our answer can and probably does change.  We change from moment to moment, after all.  With each breath, there is potential for a new experience that will shape and change us.

If I had to boil it all down to an inclusive, all encompassing thought, I would automatically say that my purpose is to write.  That's why it was my first response above.  Writing is such an intrinsic part of my nature that it touches literally every part of my life.  I write as a vocation, to make a regular living, and I write as an avocation, to please myself and satisfy my need to create.

Probably the other purpose that didn't occur to me when I dashed off my response above is another simple one:  To grow.

That's why we're here on this Earth School, after all.  To grow.  To learn.  To mature.  To become that better version of ourselves on a daily basis.  We do this by trying, failing, succeeding.  We try on different hats to see how they suit us in myriad applications - relationships, careers, creative pursuits, healthy ambitions, places to live and travel.  The list is endless.

Tameka's Facebook post gave me an immediate and entertaining challenge and I responded with a stream of consciousness flow of words.  Usually when we do that type of writing, it is as visceral and truthful a response as you can achieve.  So, in an interesting manner, I gave myself that same mirror that I mentioned in my own comment.  I recognized some things about myself of which I am already cognizant and comfortable.  When I read my words back, I smiled, because the picture painted was that perfect fit.

There have been times when I have engaged in similar writing exercises when the resulting picture wasn't as perfect a fit.  There is value in that very thing, being confronted with thoughts that we didn't realize we espoused until challenged to give them voice.  I've grown dramatically from such experiences.

Today's exercise was lighthearted, effortless and fun.  Tameka's delightful response further in her thread was:

Wow, Dawn! What a beautiful purpose you have! You give good purpose! LOL!
Isn't that the BEST comment that she made?  "You give good purpose."  I think this belongs on a t-shirt, similar to the one posted above.  I know I'd certainly buy it and wear it!

Why not take a few minutes and play this game with Tameka and I?  Empty your mind, take a deep breath and just write.  Don't over think it.  Just let the words flow until you feel it is finished.  Then read your words back and see what you learn about yourself.  If you're so inclined, share here with us - I think it will be a fun experience for all of us.

I also encourage you to click the link for Tameka's wonderful blog, Lyric Fire and experience her writing.  She is wonderfully talented and I enjoy myself every time I pay her a visit.  Tameka, thank you for the inspiration for this post!

33 comments:

  1. Dawn, you could win the record for fastest blog posting in a competition! It only seemed moments ago that we were connecting on Facebook and now your post is alive! That's what I love about technology and the power of thoughts. One thought breeds another and another and boom we have ideas!

    I must admit that watching the movie The Secret this morning made me post the My purpose is line on Facebook. I had seen the film before, but something on the inside was really calling for me to watch it again. I needed to hear some of those law of attraction principles again. It is so true that what we focus on we attract. In the movie they speak a lot about intentions and purpose. If we focus more on the positive outcome we get those things most often. It is very important to know what our purpose is and drive toward it instead of away.

    I want more fun, folly and friendship and my thoughts shall reflect this.

    Here is the answer to my own question from Facebook:

    My purpose is: "To uplift, entertain and educate through writing, eat as much chocolate as I can muster and smile til my face crinkles while traveling the world! Whoo-hoo!"

    Have a fabulous week ahead Dawn! Thanks so much for connecting with me today friend! Looking forward to seeing others responses to this fun exercise! :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I just realized I've been overlooking this new feature w/ Blogger where I can hit Reply directly to your comment. Very handy! Now I just need to remember to USE the feature from this point forward!

      - Dawn

      Delete
  2. Tameka, I love how this whole concept was born! I've read The Secret and many other books on Law of Attraction over the years and the premise resonates strongly for me. (I'm a huge fan of the Abraham-Hicks books on Law of Attraction.) How cool that this was what prompted you to post on your FB wall!

    I can't wait to see what others add to the thread. Have a lovely week in return, my sweet friend.

    Namaste',

    Dawn

    ReplyDelete
  3. To grow, to learn and to mature should be the foundation purpose of us all. Sadly all too few people think along those lines; I didn't really, not until you mentioned it. Beyond that, I feel my purpose is to help others however I can. Help them to be a better writer, to sort through some of their personal issues. I'm a good listener and I can see many issues from multiple angles.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I started out with a purpose...a journey.....but then it changed...my writing became my outlet..to release the Black within me.....and I remembered a dream I had as a child..that was I wanted to touch someone ..anyone..I still in my black have that dream..to touch someone...to let that someone know they are never never alone...and so it is my purpose......i hope I achieve it...As always...XOXOXOXOXO

    ReplyDelete
  5. On New Year's Eve I decided that I would begin a journey this year. A journey to help myself through helping others. " A Loving Lasting Marriage" is what I am seeking and I know that each of us has a secret, a element, a building block, that could help one another. I started my blog on January 1st and I feel that I am on the right path so far on this journey. I would have to say that my purpose is helping others. I have been a caregiver, a teacher, and a Mother, all roles of helping others. Through my own experiences and connecting others to real experiences I feel that I can also help others learn how to create and maintain A Loving Lasting Marriage .

    ReplyDelete
  6. Fantastic post, inspired by one divine writer and written by another. In perfect tandem!
    I "heart" writing and encouraging others, loving and being loved, growing in my relationship with the Lord, and living this wonderful life.
    I want this t-shirt! :)
    Blessings, Dawn!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Martha, I replied, but got confused by the Reply button dealie. It's been a while since I last posted & in that short time this new feature has popped up. I have to make sure I do it properly from this point forward, but for now, scroll down below to see my reply to your comment. :)

      Delete
  7. Anna, it was a fun exercise, wasn't it?! I find it very interesting that the common thread here, thus far, has been that many of us feel our purpose is to help others. That's beautiful when you think about it. It's certainly something the world needs more of. Thank you for visiting, honey! <3

    - Dawn

    ReplyDelete
  8. Bonnie, I think we all get sidetracked along our Life Path. I know I have, countless times. The shining vision I had for my life when I was younger has never come to fruition, and I look at this as a good thing. Instead, I've visited many places, learned things I never could have dreamed I would learn, I've adapted in ways I didn't think possible and I've loved more deeply than I could dream. Perhaps the not knowing is what brings us the strongest gifts and lessons. I believe you do touch others, honey, so keep shining your light. And thank you for taking time to visit and join in the writing exercise today! <3

    - Dawn

    ReplyDelete
  9. Lashadeese, I just visited your blog and found the book mentioned in your last post to be interesting and valuable! I think your blog focus is wonderful and I can already tell you that I think you're achieving your goal of helping others. It gave me a new tool to explore and I'll be purchasing the book very soon. Thank you for visiting and taking time to leave such a thoughtful comment!

    - Dawn

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Martha, I've often joked about creating my own t-shirt company. Sometimes I think I should just DO it and see if it succeeds. I want the t-shirt too! I just came back from visiting your blog, sweet girl, and I always enjoy what I find there. I came away with a smile on my face and laughter in my heart. I would say, from my own perspective, that you are definitely living your purpose. Much love to you! <3

      - Dawn

      Delete
  10. Great, sometimes we never thought of what purpose are we here, all I do is live and take each day for granted

    ReplyDelete
  11. ChrisAir, it's definitely a worthwhile thing to stop and ponder this type of question occasionally. I think we all get distracted and lose track of the important things; I'm certainly guilty. That's why this type of exercise is fun! Thank you for visiting. :)

    - Dawn

    ReplyDelete
  12. I agree wid u.. it was a fun exercise.. for u to write n 4 me to read :)

    after reading it i was lost in pool of thoughts of my purpose is_______ :P

    i m not goin to write it here my comment will look like a post :P

    Awesome read as ever.. Refreshing !!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LOL...Jyoti, I've had a couple of comments like that, so no worries! I'm just glad you enjoyed the thought process. It definitely slows us down and makes us focus differently. So good to see your name here, sweetheart! I'll be visiting you in return.

      With love,

      Dawnie

      Delete
    2. always a pleasure to read u Dawn :)

      Delete
  13. For the time being Dawn it is to make tons of money by which I can support people who need it. Cause I have to come learn you can do very little if you not well equipped yourself. I know its short sighted but that was the thought that came to my head... Loved the exercise by the way... and now hopping over to Tameka's for some more fun...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kriti, I think yours is an admirable purpose. I share a similar goal for almost identical reasons; to take care of both myself and those that I love. I don't see it as short sighted at all. To the contrary, it is far sighted in the respect that you're setting intentions for a prosperous future. More power to you, honey! Positive thoughts send the energies out so they can return to us tenfold, after all.

      I will visit you in return when I get home this evening.

      Much love to you, dear girl! <3

      - Dawn

      Delete
  14. As I am growing older I have come to realize that my purpose of life is to be forgiving and accept people as they are without being judgmental. To accept life as it comes and not be bitter about whatever life serves me, sweet, bitter, raw or cooked. I continue to be a heart person and I dont want to change that.
    Loved this exercise, Dawn. Tameka,my beautiful pink friend sorry havent been able to comment on so many of your posts because of very bad network. Will make an attempt tonight again.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Rimly, what a valiant choice you're making. Forgiveness and detachment are some of the most loving things we can give ourselves, I think. "A heart person"....I love that label! I'm glad you enjoyed the exercise - I thought it was a lot of fun to do as well.

      I'm at work at the moment, so will visit you in return this evening when I get home.

      Sending you love and smiles, sweetie! <3

      - Dawn

      Delete
  15. I love this post, Dawnie. My mind is swirling with things that I think of and might fill in the blank with, but perhaps I can boil it down to just one word that encompasses all those things.

    My purpose is love.

    yeaaaaaahhh I can dig that. It evolves with me and is ever changing but very consistent.

    This has been a healing morning my dear girl. I'm love and humusing you!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. "My purpose is love." T-shirt slogan, Tinker! Seriously, that's another one I would purchase and wear. Hmm...God/Universe/Spirit keeps knocking on my noggin with this t-shirt concept. Interesting!

      I love it when a fun moment grows to encompass many friends, causes some deep thought as well as plain old fun and enjoyment. Coolbies!

      Love and Hummus back, Tinker!!! (yet another t-shirt!)

      - Dawnie

      Delete
  16. Reading all of your purpose statements is so inspiring. I do notice the theme of being helpful to others. You all have beautiful hearts!

    No worries Rimly! Take your time. I always feel like I'm playing catch up as there as so many wonderful blogs to read!

    Thanks as well Kriti for your visit!

    Hugs and blessings to everyone!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Tameka, hasn't this been a really cool experience?! I've teamed up with other bloggers here and there and it's usually an enjoyable endeavor. This one just sort of created itself in the best way possible. I love how synchronicity and serendipity come together in a blinding flash sometimes!

      Hugs and blessings back, chickadee! <3

      - Dawn

      Delete
  17. Love this question, really got me thinking...But I've finally come up with an answer.

    My purpose is to...Love unconditionally

    This is something that I've been working on for the last couple of years, for myself and the people in my life. And I think I'm finally getting the hang of it now!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Michele, it does get you thinking, I agree! Loving unconditionally - yep, that's a Biggie, and a lifetime challenge. I think that one weaves through the subtext of all our lives. I know I put a lot of energy into the same goal each day.

      Thank you so much for visiting and joining in the fun! :)

      - Dawn

      Delete
    2. Btw, Michele, I clicked your name to go visit your blog and your profile page doesn't give that option. If you get a chance, drop me the link for your blog so I can visit you in return!

      - Dawn

      Delete
  18. I love this post... and whilst I've enjoyed all the above answers off others, my response is this:

    My purpose, is to be A Messenger, hence the reason my Blog is called AngelJane’s World... I've lived a life which has had its fair share of ups and downs... It's so important to me that others know they’re not alone, because, unfortunately I was... and to this day, I feel being alone has got to be the worst feeling on the planet... Thanks for a great post and thanks for being there!

    Namaste <3

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jane, my love, I agree with you wholeheartedly. I've often said that feeling alone and abandoned has to be the biggest, unnamed disease in this world. We all experience that feeling at one time or another, and it is very important for those of us who are able to communicate that we understand, we've been there, and that "alone" is relative.

      Love to you, sweet girl! <3

      - Dawnie

      Delete
  19. Hi Dawn,
    Here is my unedited purpose, written from my gut.

    My purpose is to be me, whatever that may or may not mean. I mean who can tell their true purpose outside of being themselves. I get up, I do what I do, I go to bed. I have to believe that my purpose is woven within my day. The things I do and say, the things I create, the thoughts I think. My purpose is Leah. Honest Leah. Imperfect Leah. Leah to the end.
    This is my purpose.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Leah, I've often said that "perfect" is not a state I ever want to inhabit. I think we're meant to be beautifully flawed - I've written blogs about this very thing - as we walk through this Earth School experience. I always love your perspective and get the biggest smile when you visit! Now I'm off to treat myself by visiting you in return.

      Loving you, chickadee! <3

      - Dawnie

      Delete
  20. you are right. I am a fan of Tameka!
    -Portia

    ReplyDelete

ShareThis