So, who doesn’t want to make a difference? Perhaps our actions are misguided at times, but I’ve got to believe that most people would love to make a positive difference in somebody’s life if given half the chance.
I think of my former clients from my years as a Public Defender and Legal Aid attorney. They had families. They had obligations. They had commitments. Maybe something went terribly wrong in their lifetime… abuse, neglect, mental health issues, long-term unemployment… but almost every person I represented had a deep down desire to make a difference.
I think it’s inborn in us. We are created to create. We are designed to serve. Our lives are meant to matter. A lot.
Think of how you feel when you receive a warm hug of gratitude or a smile of appreciation. Think of how you feel when you do something for somebody even if that somebody never learns that you are their “bless-or.” For some of us, a person’s appreciation helps us know we’re on the right path. It prompts us to give more. For others, like my husband, it’s seeing a job well done that motivates them…a building constructed…an air conditioner repaired. We’re all wired differently of course; but regardless of wiring, I maintain that we are each meant to make a difference in this world.
The question becomes….are we meant to make a difference that has eternal significance? Oddly enough, I was dreaming about that the other night. I usually dream about crazy things…you know the kinds of dreams I mean. Flying in pajamas. Furniture coming to life. But this dream was different. I kept hearing the words “make a difference” and “eternal significance.” And I kept getting the nudge to write about that. So…here you have it. Your thoughts?
Warmly,
Leave a Comment