“If you’re too busy chasing the third act, you’ll miss the meaning and message of acts one and two.” – Gretchen Jordan, Rosewood High drama teacher
Sometimes in life we are so focused on pursuing our purpose that we forget how to embrace each minute we are given. We are searching for God’s direction; we are looking for that sign; we are trying to figure out why we are here. In doing so, sometimes our perspectives are clouded, and we’re unable to see how God is already working through us.
Joe Gardner lives and breathes for his music, yet he’s always wanted to do more with it. He feels that his gift has been wasted; he thinks his life has been anything but worthwhile. Yet, as his fortunes begin to turn, and he’s on the edge of fulfilling his dream, an accident threatens his future… and his very existence. Joe finds himself experiencing a waking nightmare of “what could’ve been.” He wonders why he was never able to fulfill “his calling.”
For some of us, we believe, there is no question what we’re “meant” to do. We have a passion, a talent, a gift, or an undeterred desire to do that “one thing.” But for others, we feel like nomads in a wilderness searching endlessly for where we “fit in” … we constantly ask “do I even make a difference?” We find ourselves exhausted while seeking for that one moment when and where we impact life. In doing so, we may neglect the opportunities to pause, stop and be still in the very presence of God. It is sometimes in that quiet, that if we can just be patient and listen, then we may hear with a resounding echo, that God is here … that we “matter.” Our personal wants don’t always align with where God best breathes through us. But, it’s not really about “us” anyway … is it?
We may never truly know the impact that we leave on others, and that is OK.
We may never find a sole purpose, but if we’re willing, our soul purpose will be known to others.
That’s enough for God.
— Noel T. Manning, II
Arts & Faith Lists:
Arts & Faith Ecumenical Jury 2020 — #5