David Whyte, poet and my neighbor on Whidbey Island, wrote those words in one of his poems (which I have not been able to find!). They capture what goes on dynamically when I lose connection to my dreams and my ideals.
The tragedy of losing my vision for my life is not just that I lose touch with that which gives life meaning. I also lose the ability for "life" to find me. I become isolated, unsure of my ability to make things happen; doubting my worth and questioning the very nature of my existence.
We all need a vision for our life. We need the direction that vision provides; one that culminates in an end point that is really a rally point for the resources I can tap into as I use myself up. And, isn't that the point? To be used up in the pursuit of something I value.
Achieving my vision isn't guaranteed and achieving it isn't really even the objective. Try this...what would you like to have happen in 1,000 years? What is a vision that will take 1000 years to achieve? One that is meaningful to you and that you would truly like to see come to fruition. You'll never realize it AND you can dedicate your life to achieving it. Set such a vision for yourself and I'll guarantee the world will come to check you out!
So fun article is! I agree the idea!
Posted by: Coach Bags | June 07, 2011 at 01:59 AM
Mark, thanks for your comment. I particularly like the way you frame your comment about vision giving me something to "live AND die for". Warm Regards, Blaine
Posted by: Blaine Bartlett | April 11, 2010 at 07:53 AM
You made me think about having a vision and not realizing it in my lifetime. I think we all would agree that vision is important and think bout it at the outset of a journey or objective. Like the birth of a child or beginnings of a business concept. However, I am now thinking about how having a vision becomes more important as we grow older...maybe its greatest value is at your last breath. That would give me something to live AND die for...to be all used up with nothing left. That kind of vision gives your life meaning beyond yourself.
Posted by: Mark Uhlenberg | April 11, 2010 at 07:02 AM