Most of us at one time or another look for a purpose in life, something that makes our existence meaningful. The fortunate ones are called early in life and know exactly what their mission or purpose is while the rest of the population struggles through life, existing, but not living life fully. Something seems to be missing.
Moses is called. Image compliments of http://www.decapolis.com
I found this quote by Pablo Picasso on my blogging friend Krishna’s site at http://www.grabyourmind.com “The meaning of life is to find your gift; the purpose of life is to give it away.” I think Pablo likely meant to share that gift with the world, rather than “give it away” for he became a wealthy man from his paintings. He certainly changed the world of art with his unique style and was multi-talented (sculptor, poet, playwright, printmaker, stage designer). There is no doubt that he was gifted and passionate about his artistry. The question is: was Pablo Picasso’s calling to be an artist?
Spiritual Gift, image compliments of http://www.consecratedtohim.com
A “calling” is quite different from having a gift or talent, although the two may be combined. When a person is “called” it usually involves serving a higher purpose – serving others or doing something to uplift and inspire people, or to make the world a better place. The bearer of a gifted talent may get caught up in the fame and fortune early on and later turn that gift into a calling depending on their wisdom or level of spiritual enlightenment. Three famous people who come to mind who use/used their talents and influence to serve a higher cause are John Lennon (Love and Peace), Princess Diana (AIDS, minefields, charities) and Angelina Jolie (humanitarian causes, refugees).
A calling can occur at any stage of life, from one of the following sources:
Through self-discovery
A Near Death Experience (NDE)
A spiritual awakening
A Kundalini experience
Direct communication from a Higher Being
In dreams
Child prodigy
If you have not yet discovered your calling, you might ask yourself these questions: (You may see some similarities!)
A calling can occur at any time. Image courtesy of http://www.vishaltomarphotography.wordpress.com
Did you have any special interests as a child?
What are you passionate about?
What makes your heart sing?
When do you feel happiest?
What skills/talents come naturally to you?
What is your heart’s deepest desire?
What do people continuously compliment you on?
Do you love your current job? If not, what would you rather do?
You might not know it, but you are probably being prepared for your calling, if you haven’t already been called. The more items you identify with farther down the list, the closer you are to being called:
A feeling of dissatisfaction with your current life
A feeling of not belonging, of not fitting in
A change in your habits – losing interest in what used to be important to you
An interest in knowing who you are through self-discovery (suggest you read my post on the Initiations – the one that applies to you: Earth-Air-Fire-Water)
A consuming need to connect with your higher power
A heartfelt desire to know your purpose in life/your mission/your calling
A feeling that you have been called to serve a greater purpose
An inner voice keeps urging you to do something bigger, better, or different
Your purpose is revealed to you through a sudden spiritual experience (NDE, Kundalini)
A willingness to turn over your will to God or your higher power
A willingness to make sacrifices to serve your calling
A willingness to accept your mission – it’s not always what you expect!
In the meantime, life continues with its ups and downs, challenges and achievements. I refer to this as the “preparation stage” for one must be prepared physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually to be called. The Universe will test you by throwing challenges at you to see how you handle situations and how much you are able to take. Look at the negatives in your life and try to rise above them…be an inspiration to others and set an example in how you live your life. Above all, recognize the valuable lessons to be learned in life’s challenges. Be thankful for them, for they have made you wiser, stronger, and more resilient.
Picasso’s “Girl in the Mirror”
The Universe will reward you for your efforts and for your intentions…and yes, it’s okay to earn money from your calling…in fact, when you are called, the money usually follows, because the Universe wants you to put your energy into your mission and not have to worry about where the money will come from to support yourself.
If you feel you are ready to serve a greater purpose—you know what your purpose is and you have completed the necessary work on your “self”—put out a heartfelt prayer to the Universe and ask to be called. This will set the wheels in motion for you to finish up the preparation process. Be patient, for the timing has to be right. For those of you who have not yet discovered your purpose and need a little nudge in this direction, leave your birth date and year in the comment box and I will give you some tips to help you along.
Now, getting back to Picasso – what do you think – was art his calling?
