Each and every day we encounter moments that will truly define our life's purpose and character. In a world that ranks people based on perceived wealth, celebrates the size of a fancy home, or the number of sports cars one can drive, it's rather easy to get caught up in the comparison game. What must I do to reach the proverbial 'top'? Who can I beat down or chastise to receive the fame that others obtain? Unfortunately, the more we chase the 'top', the further away from our true life's purpose we fall.
I, like many others, spent far too long chasing money, fame, and materialism that I thought would define my life's purpose and meaning. I dreamt of having the big fancy house, a big fat pay check, and so many toys I wouldn't know which one to use next. I envisioned others looking up to me in jealousy of all that I had and who I was. Yet, the more I chased and the more I acquired, the further from myself I became. As I became unhappy with life, I thought I could solve everything on my own. My selfishness and pride destroyed everything I was and everything I thought I had.
God has a funny way of tapping us on the shoulder and pointing us back in the right direction. It was shortly after my separation and divorce that He knew I was lost. It didn't take long for me to realize the error of my ways and how disconnected from Him I had become. He quickly guided me to volunteer with myTEAM TRIUMPH. It was my saving grace - one of my life lines that I clung to on a weekly basis. I was searching for who I was and what my life's purpose was supposed to be.
A year and a half later with mTT and I feel like I have a direction, a purpose. I have met some incredibly amazing people on this short journey. Captains that have unique abilities to live each day of life to the fullest. Families that show support and love to one another through every struggle and triumph. Crew and Angels that go out of their way to bring hope and triumph to Captains that may have wondered if they would ever cross a finish line. A community of Angels that strives to raise awareness and bring inclusion to every endurance event in our communities.
Through all the joy, tears, smiles, and triumphs, I have learned a great deal about who I am and what God's purpose is for me. 1 Peter 4, verse 10 reads, "God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another." (NLT) I am meant to be the hands and feet of God on Earth, to serve others in His name. He implores us to love one another with passion and grace. To extend His love to others through our actions and motives.
Ironically, I've never found myself in this place of comfort and solitude. I don't pay attention to how much money I make or who notices the effort I put forth to serve others. My goal is no longer aiming to please myself or to fit it. I was made to stand out and serve a God that loves me despite my past, my faults, and my failures. To see the faces of triumph on those I serve is more than this Homeless Heart could ask for. And so I carry on with His purpose for me, seeking ways in which I can be His hands and feet.
And I'm deeply aware that I'm deeply loved
By a love I could never deserve
And until the day comes when I'm finally home
I will ramble and wonder and search.
"Homeless Heart" ~ Sidewalk Prophets
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