Using Your Suffering to Live a Life of Purpose, Part 1

via emanclimax

Finding your purpose in life is an exhilarating feeling.  It gives you an unspeakable joy and an inner satisfaction because the reason God created you is able to find a functional outlet.  This joy comes not only from using your God given gifts and talents, but from the people around you who are directly affected by your work.  These people are changed in a positive way because you are being true to your inner self.  Some of you are living your dream and honoring the creative being God carefully placed inside of you.  However, the majority of people struggle with not knowing their purpose in life and aimlessly wander in life feeling devalued and useless.  The wandering people I'm speaking of are in your churches, homes, work places, grocery stores and doctor's offices.  They are your neighbors and school teachers, strangers you pass on the streets and possibly even you.  The circumstances of life can destroy your soul and the dreams you once had become only  vague memories.

 

via Warner Bros.

This heart breaking scene from The Color Purple is difficult to watch.  Celie and Nettie were sisters torn apart by an abusive husband.  Some of your stories are not this tragic, but others of you have experienced far worse.  The good news is there is hope the mend your shattered heart.  The brokenness of one's soul can be restored through acts of morality.  "This involves survivors restoring themselves by responding to others’ suffering, dedicating themselves to causes and improving the world; giving life meaning and leaving it a better place (Farley 2007)."  In other words, you can volunteer or start your own non-profit organization to help others suffering from the pain you once experienced.  Remember spiritual care is about finding and nurturing your meaning and purpose in life. 

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Becoming a part of a reputable organization or building your own community of helpers is a conduit for transforming your pain.  It gives you the ability to restore peace and joy in your life and help others in need.  Part one of this series was an introduction to the condition of broken souls.  Part two of this series will discuss the healing.  Until then let me leave you with a happy ending. Celie and Nettie are reunited after lives of abuse, rejection and heartache.

References

Farley, Y. (2007). Making the Connection: Spirituality, Trauma and Resiliency. Journal of Religion & Spirituality in Social Work, 26(1), 1-15. doi:10.1300/J377v26n0101.

The Book of Philippians (NKJ)

Resources

International Volunteer Programs Association (IVPA)

RAINN/ Rape, Abuse and Insect National Network