Have you asked yourself lately where you are in your life? Are you clear about your purpose, the reason you are here? Are you fulfilling it? Are you content with your answers?
The familiar Shaker hymn reminds us – ’tis the gift to be simple. ‘tis the gift to be free. ‘tis the gift to come ‘round where we ought to be.
First, a disclaimer: the word “ought” can be fraught with danger. Too many of us “should” all over ourselves to the point of diminishment, convincing ourselves we are not enough. Rather than self-blame, what if we think of “where we ought to be” as an embrace of the truth of who we are and why we are here?
Having said that, I don’t want to imply that “simple” means easy. Rather, simplifying involves focusing on the essentials of who we are and aligning ourselves accordingly. It is a process that can reveal and reinforce the gifts we have been given and those we bring to others. Our circles of influence may be small, but they are uniquely ours and critically important.
If you have not yet explored deeply your sense of life’s purpose or wish to revisit it, let me suggest a resource that served me well over a decade ago – Alan Seale’s Soul Mission, Life Vision book and training.
Having a clear sense of purpose is one of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves and others. Knowing who we are, why we are here, and having a vision for how we can live that purpose is a significant key to a rewarding and fulfilling life.
May each of us in our own way manifest our intention “to come ‘round where we ought to be.” What’s your first next step?
sacredlead 
Hi, Bob.
It’s a gift when I come around to knowing what my purpose and intentions are, and, for me, it means taking tiny steps in those directions, not always easy, but always worth the effort, even if things don’t turn out the way I’d planned. It’s amazing how my gut will check my mind if I falter in that effort or when I second-guess myself. Those are the times when I say (regrettably) that I should have done something else or done things differently — counterproductive to think in those terms. It’s why I try not to tell anyone they “should” do/be anything because I can’t presume to know what their intent/purpose is. Even so, I am guilty at times, and that never feels right. I love the idea of simplifying and I think that starts with love. Love of yourself, everyone and how you choose to work and live and be. Giving yourself and others the benefit of the doubt. Assuming the best from people. Knowing/loving one’s self and why we do the things we do: this is my hope for my children, grandchildren and the ones I love. It’s inoculation for isolation and doubt. Thanks for another thoughtful post!
My take-away from your comment, Bonnie, in addition to gratitude for creating and sharing it, is the importance of being mindful – paying attention to the intention of aligning one’s thoughts and actions. My perception of you is that you do it well, holding true to yourself and your life’s purpose, which is where each of “ought to be” on our own path. All the best…
🙏❤️