This week we’ve been exploring what we really desire in this season. We’ve been asking ourselves: What is our external quest and internal quest? What do we long to have and who do we desire to become?
Today we consider the stakes. What does it matter? What’s on the line if you don’t show up to this longing and if you don’t give yourself over to this becoming?
Once again, I know this can seem uber heady. Rarely do we feel we’re living in a Marvel movie where the fate of the universe rests on our super powers. Ok, if we ever feel like that…than probably there are other issues to address.
But the point is this:
We have an uncanny ability to forget our story matters.
At least I do. I can take myself so seriously when it comes to making mistakes. Perfectionism still nips at my ankles in my forties. But taking my desires—my story—seriously, well that’s another thing. The things I most want to do often get pushed to next week’s to-do list. Write…perhaps I’ll begin fresh at the first of the month? Date…with starting a business do I have the energy to start a relationship? Become more patient…who has time for that?
We can’t recognize the stakes until we understand our why.
Here’s how it works for me: If my why is simply about me I’ll lose interest when it gets hard. Pleasure can only hold my attention for so long. But…if it is teamed with meaning–true purpose–then I can risk, do what scares me shitless, show up and keep showing up. The ground of my meaning-making is a love for God and others. That ground shakes out in a thousand different ways, and I live it out with such imperfection. Yet, that’s what helps me recognize the stakes.
As you consider your stakes, I encourage you to think about your why.
What could be lost if you don’t show up to your desire? What can be gained if you become more of who you are? Not only what—but who—will be better for it?
Your story matters.
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” Maya Angelou
Do tell.