I’ve been listening to an audiobook I’ve found to be a bit dry. There have been a few interesting ideas, one being that purpose matters more than passion in determining who does a good job. The authors assert that it would behoove commencement speakers everywhere to stop telling graduates to follow their passion.
There was an erudite argument and research behind that statement, but I get what they’re saying. Am I passionate about dealing with intellectual property matters? Definitely no, but I’m capable and it serves the greater purpose of my organization, so I do it.
It’s been a weird week. Or couple of weeks. Today is the first day in … well, longer than usual … I’ve really been able to sit down and write. Taking care of my tribe has been at the top of the list. Lots of family (and friends who are like family) events, both happy and sad.
I listened to the latest episode of The Ragamuffin Preacher podcast on Monday. It includes an interview of Bill Kinison – did you know Sam Kinison’s brother was part of the Brennan cast and also preached Robin Williams’ funeral? If you don’t know who Sam Kinison is, you are either too young or too sheltered and should hop on over to everyone’s best friend, Google.
Anyway, the interview aired previously on RagamuffinTV, but I listened again anyway. Bill reminds our mutual friend (and interviewer) David of his purpose.
“Many are called, few are chosen. You are chosen … you are chosen because you’re not like anyone else.”
Many are called, few are chosen. You are chosen … you are chosen because you’re not like anyone else. ~Bill Kinison Share on XI’ve had similar moments from time to time, received similar reminders. Someone will pause, get serious, and say something like, “You have been put in this position for a reason.” A few weeks ago a friend shared a relevant story from their own experience I would describe as a divinely appointed conversation giving me exactly the direction I was seeking and needed.
I’ve been known to say I need reminding of my purpose daily and often every fifteen minutes.
Today a preacher I’ve known a long time gave me the “ultimate encouragement”. At – of all places – a funeral. I didn’t have a chance to speak with him before the service, so I’m not even sure he knows what I’ve been up to lately. I don’t remember the words he said, but it was something along the lines of encouraging me to continue being diligent in the work I’m doing for the Lord.
We were filing out past the casket before heading to the cemetery!
Wait. What was that?
Another divinely appointed conversation. I should stop being surprised by them.
What are your thoughts on purpose versus passion?
