A Purpose Driven Life

 

I recently had the extreme privilege of having some wonderful conversations with several of my coworkers regarding the reason why we chose to work where we do.  Most of us are retired and we all seem to agree that this job we’ve taken on is to fill a deep need inside of us to make our retirement as good as we can possibly make it.  I personally derive a great deal of satisfaction from serving others.  It fills my tank to overflowing.

 

Additionally, I want to be the best possible version of me that I can.  I want to be kind, helpful and someone that others feel they can depend on.  I was recently told by my supervisor at work that to her, I am that person.  I was also told that same thing by a close friend who was in need of my help a couple weeks ago.  A couple months ago another friend told me that if she was ever in trouble I would be her first call.  It is an amazing thing to be trusted and counted on.  I am absolutely thrilled that my circle is able see me in this way.

 

While planning my retirement I envisioned myself seeking a purpose driven life with a major portion of it devoted to serving others.  I was hopeful that it would include working with the elderly and I’m so pleased that I am doing just that.  I also find myself in a mentoring position with high school age and college students.  They will seek me out for advice, information or assistance.  Just the other day I showed a group of high school students how to use an old style manual can opener.  They thought that was so cool!  I thought their reactions were so cool!

 

In my current walk of life I am dealing with people that have with a variety of different issues.  Some are simply aging or have significant medical issues.  Some are dealing with homelessness in their golden years.  Others have mental health issues like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.  Others are dealing with dementia, Alzheimers or the aftermath of having had closed head injuries.  With each of these people I am focusing on being kind, loving, patient and compassionate while making sure they maintain their dignity.

 

I have a friend going through a divorce after years of domestic violence due to a partner’s mental illness.  While it is difficult to watch them go through this, I am grateful to be able to offer the assistance she needs right now to make the necessary changes to her life.  To her I am a safe haven.  Wow!  That feels incredible.

 

I do not need any praise or accolades.  The feeling of fulfillment I get from serving others is more than plenty.  In the process I am learning and growing so much.  Knowing that I am achieving this goal for myself is very empowering.  I am working hard to live a purpose driven life and I can see that I am succeeding in that endeavor.  I am becoming a new person, an improved version of my best self and my cup overflows.