Purposeful Participation

Each of us is a part of a community, family, relationship, workgroup, etc.  When you look at all the different relationships in your life it is surprising to see the unique social structure of each one.

Some of the groups you are a part of may seem completely independent of all the rest.  Then, there are times when the dynamics seem to overlap.  You suddenly become aware that someone from one area of your life is connected somehow to another person in a completely different part of your life.  Whatever you do, wherever you go, you are a part of something bigger than you are independently.

We all have work, family, friends, spiritual relationships - - at one level or another.  In addition, we may have the relationships at the doctor’s office, or grocery or department store where we shop frequently.

So, what do you suppose is our responsibility to these relationships?  Do we simply float in and out of them - - participating only when required?  Or do we contribute a valuable piece to each group?

Certainly the latter is the better answer.  We are all asked to contribute and how much we give and how often are entirely up to us.

Consider each group - - each social setting - - as something comprised of many unique and different parts.  Lets use the analogy of a car engine here and consider all of the unique parts that create a fully, functioning motor that operates your car at the turn of a switch.

You have ignition wires, hoses, valves, spark plugs, timing chains, a water pump, fuel pump, air filter, battery, fuses, and nuts and bolts.  Each item has its unique character and function.  Very few of the parts are interchangeable and must remain intact to successfully move the vehicle from one location to another and operate heat, air-conditioning, window wipers, door locks and so on.

When something goes amiss, it could be a simple item that has expired, broken or come loose and fallen off.  Ignoring this minor issue only leads to greater expense and complications over time.

Now, put yourself back into the picture of the teams, communities and relationships you share.  What happens when you withdraw, avoid participation or simply “check out”?  Does the group continue to function at the highest level?  Does the team move forward without you?  Do you allow yourself to believe you are insignificant and no one will notice your absence?

Whatever story you have told yourself there may be a deeper meaning that you have ignored.  The group, family, spiritual community, intimate relationship would not be the same without all players, all contributors.  We each have a role, a purpose, and a responsibility to the whole.  When we give our all life is rich and more rewarding and every relationship is more fulfilling.  And just like the parts of the engine, each of us needs to be finely tuned and cared for.  It is important to find balance between social and solitude.  This balance is a fine line for giving as well as receiving.

Yes, each one of us is a part of something bigger.  We are not alone, we are here, together, to help, support, encourage, and love and be loved.

And everyone one of us is of great value.  There is no one greater or smaller as each of us equally creates and co-creates every experience.  Doesn’t it make good sense to be all that you can be and do all that you can do and thrive, and soar and shine?

I believe it does.  Each one of us is here on purpose and we are all part of the grand design to make this world a better place. 

This week offers many opportunities to give more than you receive, to share more than you have been asked and to love more than you think is wise.  How will you choose to participate?