GRATITUDE: Journey to One's Calling

Moments of reflection help us remain GRATEFUL for all lessons learned. One that comes to mind that helped me understand the value of the twists and turns of life was learning that the spiral is the universal symbol for change and evolution. It speaks to coming back again and again to the same place, seeing things in a new light. Isn't this so true...and so needed as work through these times CHALLENGING us to become more in order to seize the OPPORTUNITY awaiting our discovery? When we revisit thoughts, ideas, experiences, both good and even the tragic, we see things with the eye of the growth and change. This happens to me often by consciously keeping this idea of the spiral in mind.

I wanted to share one moment that I've revisited again and again. It seems especially meaningful as we begin reflect on this year and the promise ahead of us:

Some years back, I visited Washington D.C. One of the highlights was an exhibit at the Smithsonian that focused on FAITH. I wrote down a quote displayed in one of the exhibit cabinets. I've carried it with me in the years that followed...and eventually gave it a title. Rev. Dr. Carpenter has no idea of her far-reaching impact and how many times it has helped me make sense of my own journey.

I share it with you for its message (see below) ...and as another small example of how a person unseen can be part of our spiral journey even in the distance. We all can leave a lasting impressions by sharing and showing up in others' lives. As Lao Tzu's wisdom tells us, "Remember influence begins with you and ripples outwards."

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The Journey to One's Calling
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I have draped my windows with faith;

I have carpeted my floor with gratitude;

I have covered my desk with hard work;

I've filled every corner of my room with prayer;

I have laid on the bed of trust,

And I have leaned back in the recliner of self-confidence.

Written by...
Rev. Dr. Dolores Carpenter, Senior Pastor
Michigan Park Christian Church
Washington, D.C.

Where is your journey taken you?

Let yourself fill with GRATITUDE for all of life's twists and turns...
for all the lessons learned. Pass them on.

Warm wishes to you...

Debbe

 

 

Debbe Kennedy
Founder, Global Dialogue Center
Home of Women in the Lead
Author, Putting Our Differences to Work

Comments

[Nina]

Hi Debbe,
No matter how time goes by or when I chime in to your global dialogue I always find some words or phrases or poems that are so very timely..."spiral is the universal symbol for change and evolution"....I am apolgetic for not having been on facebook and going with the flow recently but my life is in it's own distinctive spiral and one I must and am paying great attention to...talk to you soon
Hugs, Nina