Embracing Your True Calling: Finding Courage to Follow Your Spiritual Path
In my thirties, I began to experience unusual spiritual phenomena that challenged my perception of reality. These experiences urged me to explore a path beyond academia and the secular world, but I lacked the courage to take the leap. Little did I know that embracing my true calling would lead me to a fulfilling and purposeful life.
We all have a unique purpose in this world, a calling that resonates deep within us. Fulfillment comes when we align our actions with this calling, and it is impossible to do something that we were not meant to do. Every step we take, every job we pursue, serves as a stepping stone towards our ultimate purpose.
For me, my journey in the mental health field was a crucial part of my preparation. I worked tirelessly, climbing the ladder to become the executive director of mental health agencies. Little did I know that these experiences were shaping me, molding me into the person I needed to be to fulfill my true calling.
Having the courage to be authentic is essential in discovering and embracing our true selves. It involves recognizing our aptitudes and interests, and aligning our actions accordingly. It requires us to step away from societal expectations and norms, and instead, listen to the whispers of our soul.
Listening to the Whispers of the Soul
Our souls have a way of communicating with us, nudging us towards our purpose. Sometimes these nudges are gentle whispers, while other times they may be more forceful, demanding our attention. It is up to us to listen and have the courage to act upon them.
However, it is important to note that embracing our true calling does not mean abandoning everything else in our lives. It is about finding a balance, integrating our passions and purpose into our daily existence. Our true calling can manifest in various ways, and it is up to us to recognize the signs and seize the opportunities that come our way.
Overcoming Fear and Doubt
Fear and doubt often hold us back from pursuing our true calling. The fear of the unknown, the fear of failure, and the fear of judgment can be paralyzing. However, it is important to remember that growth and transformation lie just beyond our comfort zones.
It takes courage to step into the unknown, to trust in the journey, and to believe in ourselves. We must cultivate self-belief and resilience, knowing that setbacks and challenges are part of the process. Each obstacle we encounter serves as a lesson, guiding us closer to our true purpose.
Embracing Change and Adaptability
Embracing our true calling often requires us to make significant changes in our lives. We may need to let go of certain relationships, leave behind familiar environments, or even change careers. This can be daunting, but it is essential for our growth and fulfillment.
Change can be uncomfortable, but it is through change that we discover our true potential. We must be open to new experiences, willing to learn and adapt along the way. It is in these moments of uncertainty that we often find our greatest strengths and uncover hidden talents.
Nurturing Self-Discovery
Discovering our true calling is a journey of self-discovery. It requires us to explore our passions, reflect on our values, and connect with our innermost desires. This process may involve seeking guidance from mentors, engaging in introspection, and embracing new experiences.
Self-discovery is not a linear path. It is a continuous process of growth and evolution. As we uncover more about ourselves, our true calling may evolve and transform. It is important to remain open and adaptable, allowing our journey to unfold naturally.
Living a Purposeful Life
When we align our actions with our true calling, we live a life of purpose and fulfillment. Our work becomes more than just a means to an end; it becomes an expression of our authentic selves. We find joy and meaning in what we do, and our impact ripples out into the world.
Living a purposeful life does not guarantee a smooth journey. There will be challenges and setbacks along the way, but it is through these experiences that we grow and learn. Our true calling is not just about personal fulfillment; it is about making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Conclusion
Embracing our true calling requires courage, self-belief, and a willingness to step into the unknown. It is a journey of self-discovery, where we align our actions with our passions and purpose. As we navigate this path, we must remember that setbacks and challenges are opportunities for growth.
So, I encourage you to listen to the whispers of your soul, to have the courage to be your authentic self, and to embrace the changes that come with pursuing your true calling. Remember, a life lived in alignment with your purpose is a life well-lived.
After UCLA College of Letters where I obtained PhD is Philosophy, Psychology and Religion I got a teaching job at the University. I felt uneasy teaching. I applied for a job in the mental health field; I got many offers and within two years was running the mental health center where I worked, supervising psychologists and psychiatrists who have been in that field for many decades.
Eventually, I felt bored by the job (of been executive director...I was barely thirty two years old when I was the executive director of the largest mental health agency in the city where I lived) and quit and tried doing other things.
Nothing I tried worked out for me. So, I did other executive director jobs but eventually wound up quitting and returning to college teaching until I felt that teaching is too easy for me; I felt unchallenged being a college professor (I filled my time writing on assorted subjects that interested me).
Eventually, I realized that I have a destiny and fate. My normal routine is to read until I go to sleep (although there is a huge TV in the house, I seldom watch it) and get up around 5 AM, think for a while, and then go to my computer and type the thoughts that I just had in my sleep.