How does it feel to like who you are when you’re not who you think you’re supposed to be? A profound question asked by Clint Gresham, former NFL kicker. We know what it feels like when things do not work out according to our plan. We find ourselves lost, broken and don’t know how or where to begin again.
Gresham’s article about finding wholeness in our brokenness appeared in the fall edition of Magnolia Journal. On the cover in bold letters, it says, “In Pursuit of Happiness Wholeness”. Editor Joanna Gaines describes wholeness as our ability to see all that we already are so we can live in abundance of who we are. That got my attention.
I started my own business four years ago doing everything– training/teaching, coordinating, selling, developing curriculum, funding, marketing, designing start-ups – I did it all. I did not think about what I was called to do or am passionate about. I did what I had been doing well for the last 23 years.
It was time to become more focused in life and in business. I signed up for a class called Platform University by Michael Hyatt. The first exercise was to clarify my identity, my purpose and my “why” into a simple statement. It was extremely hard since I came from a place of brokenness after being bullied into early retirement at my last job.
That’s the first time I said it out loud – I was bullied. It feels good to admit and accept the truth. As Clint Gresham explained, the acceptance of brokenness is wholeness. It’s where we stop trying to look or feel different and just be. It is in these times we learn more about who we are and what we have to offer the world.
I finished my assignment and am working towards my vision with a new website. I love teaching how to build healthy relationships and leadership skills to enhance lives. I started writing a book. And most importantly, I want to connect with you through my blog posts each week.
Our identity does not lie in external things we do. We all are a work in progress. Every piece of our identity is formed from the fullness of our life story. This includes embracing the array of emotions and experiences which makes us unique and forms our identity.
For me, God gives me clear answers to who I am in Ephesians, Chapters 1 and 2. He has renewed my passion to do what I was called to do – to serve others using my gifts.
How do you find wholeness?
Warmly,
Jean
