A caring lady named Dorothy had enjoyed a rewarding life as a nurse. She lived at the same skilled nursing facility where she had worked most of her life. At 83 years of age, Dorothy had a very important purpose to fulfill, she knew what it was, and she was unstoppable. Dorothy was one of the most good-humored and memorable people I had ever met. Each day, she would bring cheer to those she spoke with. She traveled the hallways in her wheelchair, stopping at friends' rooms to tell a joke or offer a cheerful, "Good Morning!" She would often alert caretakers if a resident was having trouble. She even cheered up the staff members when their day wasn't going well. Her "pep talks" were timely, entertaining, and effective. Dorothy's cheerfulness and empathy for others had an inspiring influence on those around her. If one of the residents was ill, Dorothy would stop by their room with get-well wishes. She often remarked, "I still work here, even during lunch!" Dorothy had a spirit of Achievement that wouldn't quit. The same can be true for us--the spirit of achievement can remain strong for life. Whether we dive into ambitious projects or simply bring a smile to others, there will always be ways to enrich the world. One's purpose can be fulfilled throughout life, in many places, and in many ways. Achievements don't need to appear spectacular to be priceless. Somewhere right now, the smallest act of kindness is enriching someone with strength, love and inspiration. Today, you can bring meaningful change to someone in your unique way, fulfilling your special purpose. Taking systematic, purposeful action, raises the limits on what we are able to accomplish. In this way, we not only achieve goals; we strive for those things we were meant to achieve. When we know, without a doubt, our reason for living, we can stretch our abilities and accomplish what we can imagine. Best of all, we can continue to fulfill our purposes throughout life. Marvin J. Ashton (1915-1994) wrote, "Do not doubt your abilities. Do not delay your worthy impressions. With God's help, you cannot fail. He will give you the courage to participate in meaningful change and purposeful living." Consider these questions: What accomplishments, thus far, are you the most proud of in your life? What are the greatest gifts you bring to others through the work you do now? What do you want to achieve that you have not already achieved? What is the greatest passion in your life, and how could it make a difference in the lives of others, now and throughout your life? May you be blessed with the rewards and abundance that a purposeful life and a life-long spirit of achievement will bring. |
