PURPOSE

To me purpose entails the use of my talents and natural abilities for my good and for the good of those around me. I simply define purpose as: A REASON TO LIVE; A REASON TO BE; A REASON TO SUCCEED!

I find it hard to mention the word PURPOSE without thinking about what, to me, is its main ingredient: PASSION. Passion is generally understood to imply very strong feelings or excitement for something, according to most dictionary definitions.

For us to find our purpose, we need to be fearless and determined in the pursuit of our personal goals. Draw inspiration from like-minded individuals who have worked hard to perfect their craft. Never hesitate to share your vision and to express your hunger for success. It’s also important not to focus much on the fear of failure. Always remember that failure is part of everyone’s journey towards success!

It is very sad seeing so many people living aimlessly with no goals, no plans and absolutely no intention to strive to be the best they can ever be in this game called life. Finding one’s purpose involves making strides to be a winner NO MATTER WHAT THE COST! I believe that we were all created for greatness. It doesn’t matter what your individual background is, the colour of your skin, your educational background, your measure of wealth or lack of it, if you dig deep inside and make time to introspect, you will certainly find meaning and the purpose for which you were created.

According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs, as published in various Psychology books, human beings have to fulfil a series of needs before being able to achieve a level of self-actualisation which enables us all to think big, dream big and DO BIG!

In the words of a dear friend of mine, my mentor, my sister Jeannie Faulkner Barber who is also the author of the best-selling Taste of Fire, the purpose of life walks hand in hand with God’s plan for each of us. Contentment can only be found in commitment. Strength, knowledge, serenity, and fulfilment can be attained by turning everything over to the Almighty. If we put aside all thoughts of envy, racism, covetousness, greed and indecision, He graciously opens our eyes to much greater things never conceivable through our own humble abilities.

I look up to a lot of individuals who, regardless of their struggles, refuse to give up on their quest for self-discovery and the realisation of their unique talents. Our talents and spiritual gifts are instrumental in shaping our destiny and in discovering the purpose for which we were individually created.

I encourage all of us to make time to introspect and think about whether we are just surviving, or whether we are really making strides to progress steadily regardless of obstacles. Work hard, seek counsel, believe in yourself and never settle for less. Always remember, you are not ordinary – you are extraordinary! You are fearfully and wonderfully made, created for great exploits. Now, go in peace and conquer your world!

© Yvonne Mahlape Maserumule, 2014
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