What's my passion?

Sometimes the most thought-provoking questions hit you at the most unexpected times. That's what happened to me today. It was Performance Review time with my boss, and I have to say, I was a little nervous, but we ended up having a really good conversation that included her asking me the question that is the title of this blog entry . . .

What is your passion?

This was part of a long conversation about several things that I won't bore you with, but the question has stuck with me for the rest of the day, and I've realized it's one that I haven't stopped to ask myself in a really long time. So, in view of the "self-makeover" I've decided to embark on, I thought it would be fitting to think about the things that I consider my passions at this point in my life.

So, after six hours of thinking (and admittedly, I'm sure I'll continue to consider this question for a much longer period of time) this is what I've come up with:

- I'm passionate about people. I'm passionate about the things that make each and every person unique as well as the things that connect us. I'm passionate about the relationships- romantic, friendly, or otherwise- that people can have with one another. And, I'm passionate about helping people realize their own potential and capabilities by being a positive influence and encouragement in their lives.

- I'm passionate about my faith. When I really stop to think about it, where would I be without Jesus? The answer in a word: LOST. God has been so faithful to provide for me, strengthen me, and teach me throughout my life. As I look back, there is no way my life could have come together the way it has if God had not been in control.

- I'm passionate about realizing my own potential, and I think this passion stems from the other two I've mentioned. I feel that I owe it to the wonderful people in my life who have loved and cared for me and to the God that has been so faithful to me to make the most out of the opportunities and talents I've been given. And as cheesy as it sounds, I want to constantly work to do better and be better.

So, the question is, what do I do now that I've made this discovery. It wouldn't do me any good to write all about this and not take any action. So, I'm pledging right now to start thinking about these passions with every decision I make and in every situation I'm in. I can think of far too many times over the past couple years where I haven't honored these passions, and I don't want to look back years from now and be in the same situation.

So, here's to honoring my passions. Hopefully this blog will help you think about yours!

Lauren