Enough about driving and accidents- why do you do what you're doing?
what is your motivation?
what is your criteria for success- or failure?
I think we all have multiple motivations for the decisions we make- and rarely look at our criteria- until something happens that gives us the impression we've either really succeeded- or really stuffed something up...or in my case, have been sitting around thinking for too long :)
Why am I thinking about such things? because Im in Africa- ive taken all the steps to do and be what Ive always wanted to do and always wanted to be... Its not a dream anymore-its reality. Im doing the language learning, about to embark on figuring out where I fit within the evolving organism of aid work in malawi, and the particular approach of the organisation Ive aligned myself with and all the different expectations of the people involved and I find myself thinking- 'why am I here?'
In any life circumstance there are multiple 'things' that can be pursued or achieved- relationships, the 'job', self development, $, status etc
My answer to 'why am i here' will influence my experience. If I don't have a clear answer- then my experience will be shaped by other peoples answer to my question.
I want to build meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships with Yawo people. I would love to spend lots of time in a particular village and become part of their daily lives and understand their world view...but i wonder whether this would be an indulgence- given the time preiod Im here. 2 yrs is nothing in the life of the village. im a flash in the pan.
I would love to wrestle with the practice of wholistic development- taking people seriously. This involves alot more relationships- at a very superficial level- relying on the strength of the deeper ties of our malawian co-workers. Its a lot less relationally satisfying- but achieves a greater positive impact in the community here and personal training for the future.
Is it possible to balance the 2? Is it possible to achieve a degree of 'success' in either in the 2 years Im here? how do i define success?
well, on that note I have finished my brekky and 2 cuppas and desparately need to do some language prep in the next 30 min before my next lesson...
I'll keep thinking about it...
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"life is what happens while you make other plans"
John Lennon
mm- the spaces in between. deep. thanks. I think Im realising there are so many options now -today that i want/need to be intentional about them so i dont have regrets later...
hey- im the first person to view your profile!- cool. who are you?
Why are you there? What are the greatest commands? After that, all you can say is give us this day our daily bread.
there are no commands,only choices
Thanks 'PL' and Agent Orange- you've both given me v. helpful reminders- that I choose to follow the greatest commands- to love the Lord our God with all my heart, soul, mind and strength and love my neighbour as myself.... the rest is just details :)
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