We all have something inside of us that makes us unique, we are not meant to be in this world and just float around but we are supposed to live fully in that uniqueness. I am a firm believer in expressing one’s authentic self in a world that is satisfied with conforming to the norm. To do this one has to be brave, in a world where we are “forced” to fall in line for fear of being labeled “the weird one” we find ourselves dimming our light in exchange of acceptance. If the condition of being accepted by others is to compromise on your uniqueness, then joy and purpose will flee from your presence.
I tell the children and youth in Off The Grid that joy is found in one’s purpose. Purpose by definition is the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists. There is a restlessness that we feel when we do not find our purpose in life. Some people find their purpose at an early age while others find it later on in life, either way finding that purpose will set you free. Let’s face it, as adults living in this fast-paced world, finding our purpose might be the last thing on our minds as we try to provide and navigate everyday life. I get that, I understand that, but truth be told, we are all on this journey that will require us to stop, take stock of our lives before we reach our final destination.
I try to help our children and youth to find their purpose before the complications of adulthood hits them. I wholeheartedly support their efforts in their self discovery process. Yes, it is a process because one thing will lead to another and before you know it, they find that their purpose is much bigger than they ever imagined. Take for example Jake, Jake has had it in his heart to help others. He has for a long while wanted to give back to others by sharing what he has. He asked me for help to bring water and Gatorade to those on the streets of Calgary. My heart jumped for joy when he told me his desire. I spoke with Jake’s parents about his desire, and they were extremely excited for him and fully supported him.
Jake and I started going to downtown Calgary to handout refreshments and I tell you it became more than just a drop and go. It became an opportunity for Jake to talk and listen to different people’s experiences. These are not just unhoused individuals; these are human beings who at one point had dreams of becoming successful. These are human beings who once were at the top of their game, but life happened and they lost it all. Behind every face is a story, behind every smile is someone’s child. Jake at seventeen years old has found his purpose. Every week I drive Jake to the store to get refreshments and give them away. Jake has a part-time job, and he uses his money to buy supplies for this incredible initiative. His parents are proud of him, I am proud of him, and I know he is proud of himself.
Go out today, be intentional about PURPOSE.
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