Thursday, September 13, 2007

I Know My Word

Stronger will probably understand what I'm talking about, and anyone else who's read Oriah Mountain Dreamer's The Call. For those of you who haven't had the chance to read it yet (I'm sure its on your To Do list), I'll try to give a brief description.

The premise of the book is that we all have a calling and that calling can be summarized in a single word. So, ultimately, its about finding your word then going out to live it and share it with the rest of the world. She stresses that it can't be something that you were born knowing. Her thought - and I believe it to be true - is that its nearly impossible to teach something you know instinctively. Try teaching someone to breathe. Or, if you're rhythm crazy like me, to dance. The best teachers are those who didn't know how to do something - in fact that subject was a complete and utter mystery to them - yet who finally figured that something out. They can teach it because they remember what it felt like not to know - and can clearly define the steps they took in order to really understand. Each person's "something" is different - but its something that is vitally important to their growth in this life. Something that they will be tested on again and again until they finally figure it out. That "something" is their word. When I read the book years ago, I searched and searched my heart, my psyche, my spirit and my life to find that word. I came up with a few ideas, but none of them ultimately resonated - at least not for more than a few months. They were all important lessons - slow down, have courage, have faith, believe in yourself - but none of them were my word.

Then, yesterday evening, on my way home from a meeting with my therapist (what!?!? Yes, world, I have been in therapy and will explain all of it one of these days, if you're interested) when the word came out and hit me right between the eyes. Empower. That's it. That's my mission. First, to empower myself and then, somehow - only Spirit knows exactly - to pass it on.

My first mission isn't quite accomplished - I suspect it will be an ongoing journey - but I'm getting very, very close. And, again, the Mystery of my Why - why did I start training? why triathlon? why marathon? why push yourself so hard? - is illuminated. Its not because I feel I need the abuse. Its not because I want to win races. Or even because I want to go faster. When I train, when I race, when I conquer yet another element of triathlon that has seemed impossible - I feel powerful. This power has been immeasurably important to me - how much so I will have to go into another day. Today, I just want to revel in the joy of finding my word. Empower. So it is.

9 comments:

the Dread Pirate Rackham said...

Yes.

thank you.

Carrie said...

Empower- I think you've had your word for a while because I remember it in some early emails. It has stayed with you...must be your call.

Anonymous said...

You empower me to be much more than I am! I suspected that since March 19th 2004, later climbing the trail from Greer Spring, I knew it!

Hubby!

Vickie said...

Nice comment from Hubby! Empower. Yes, that is a good word, and one which I can tell you are still searching for. Once you have gained the knowledge and are "empowered," you will want to share it and pass it on. Someone out there will become your mentee, your project, and you will then see them become empowered too. With all things, but specifically triathlon/running, you will gain more from passing on your power to others, or at least enough knowledge so they can gain their empowerment.

21stCenturyMom said...

Finding your word is HUGE! How liberating and... well... empowering. Really - getting to your core has to be one of the most empowering things there is.

I have no idea what my word is - I'll have to work on that.

teacherwoman said...

Empower. I can see that. Definitely you. I know your comments and posts have defitinely had an effect on me. :)

Jane said...

How true... I'm a pretty good medical student teacher probably because I was such a mediocre medical student and know how hard it is.

Feelling that you are in control of your life is a good feeling.

Why are you apologizing for being in therapy? Well, of course I'm a little biased, but it takes bravery to enter therapy to deal with things rather than just let things lie. It's like training - you take the time and effort to strengthen things that need strenthening. You're brave to go and share this part of you. I'm in therapy (all therapists should have therapy). It should be as natural as saying "I went to see my dermatologist and..." Ok, you've hit a nerve here.

Marathoner in Training said...

EMPOWER! now that is a powerful word, no pun intended. That is one he double hockey sticks of a strong word. I am impressed with you and your word. Right now I think my word would have to be confused, and that is changing.
As for admitting that you go to theorapy, I bet if everyone that went to a therapists spoke out, we would all be amazed as to how many and whom goes to see one. Keep the search focused and keep us up to date.

Lori said...

That sounds like a really great book that I need to read. I love your "word". Perfect. I have a feeling I know my word, too, but I definitely think there is a time in our lives when we find it. I would have had no idea a year ago. And maybe it will change again in another 5 or 10.

As far as therapy goes, you know I share that boat. My only question I keep asking myself is "why has it taken me so long?" I know the reason I started going, but the reason I *keep* going...well, that's just as important.