“We cannot live in a world that is not our own, in a world that is interpreted for us by others. An Interpreted world is not a home. –Hildegard of Bingen 

Poem # 11  To Live with Intention

I have seen it—
the quiet light in others,
a steady presence
rooted in purpose.

I’ve seen that inner stillness,
that inner clarity
that knows where it's going.

So, I search myself,
what is my intention?

To live with purpose
is to live awake—
with eyes open,
with heart open.

To notice beauty,
to choose kindness,
to care deeply,
even in small moments.

Today, I begin again—
to listen,
to heal,
to help others live
their fullest life.

… and here is my original Reflection that inspired the poem. —Tricia

Reflection #11 To Live with Intention

Now that I’m done with my paid employment, what they call retirement, I have a couple of decades ahead of me to redefine my goals and find a purpose for the years to come. I am looking at how I can use my enduring passions– in this case, my love of writing, of organizing, of creating sacred space— as a guide to help me uncover a new sense of purpose. To stay connected to the work I love, but no longer wish to do every day, I am determined that age will not limit my energy and creativity nor my wanting-ness to participate in what interests and fulfills me. I ask myself at this stage of life, “Why I am here?” As I slow down, check-in, and listen in the empty spaces, I am finding out what gives my life meaning.

My younger years were often colored with an urgency and sense of striving. I had a steely determination to make a difference and a love of order and discipline. Now, even as this urgency lessens, my desire for purpose and meaning grows. As I look for deeper meaning I feel a greater amount of peace, equanimity, and comfort. I am seeking what will give me greater understanding, goodness, and gladness. At the same time, I believe life will feel valuable when I am involved with something that matters. Unsure of my purpose, I think about a work that will offer comfort create beauty, and right some wrong. It may involve family, education, creativity, work, social/community involvement, or political activism.

Perhaps you, like me, are struggling to find what fits. What feels meaningful to you. Whatever it is, I challenge myself and you to write it down on paper. Give it language, not so you or I will necessarily achieve it. But as a way to hold ourselves accountable. To commit to trying.

Now it‘s your turn

Take time to reflect and if in a group, share as you feel able.

In this gap-week I challenge myself to:

a)    redefine my goals.

b)    find a purpose for the years to come that will give my life meaning.

c)    investigate how I can use my enduring passions.

d)    stay connected to the work I love, but no longer wish to do every day.