Passion. Purpose. Poise.
These words were spoken over me by Jenn, a sweet mentor, but a practical stranger – a stranger who loves me very much.
We arrived at month one debrief, which is essentially an opportunity for all 40-ish squad members to reconvene together in a comfortable location after having been separated in our individual teams all month. We, as a squad, had different ministries, communities, relationships and experiences during month one. Debrief is a great way for us to gather together and unpack all that happened this month and posture our hearts for what is to come during month two.
I personally battled some pretty heavy stuff during month one. I housed hostility in my heart and dealt with insecurities I have never experienced before. After several one-on-ones with our Leadership Team, I felt reassured. God gave me a voice, a special personality and leadership qualities for a reason. I’m still learning how to best serve the Kingdom with my gifts while loving those who are different than me, but I rest assured my gifts are of God and He intends to use them for good.
During a quiet moment, Jenn approached me and confidently whispered, “God gave me three words for you: Passion, Purpose and Poise. The rest of your race and your entire life are built on these three principals.” It nearly knocked the breath out of me. Just when I thought my strong personality, work-ethic and direct attitude were misunderstood, she brought it all back into focus.
If you know me at all, you know I function (almost always) with passion, purpose and poise. Years of hard work, dedication, commitment, influence, role-modeling and experience have sculpted me to lead with those three qualities. I am thankful Jenn helped me refocus my perspective and allowed me to not lose sight of what’s important to me.
My upbringing was different than most of my fellow racers, but my upbringing was sturdy. I work differently, I see the world differently and my mind races towards things some don’t comprehend. But, Jesus sees me for who I am and wants to use me where I’m at. I drive with passion, purpose and poise that won’t soon fade. For that Lord, I THANK YOU.
· I bring knowledge and wisdom to the table on topics I am passionate about.
· I work efficiently and tirelessly in activities I find purposeful, while prompting others to find their purpose and do the same.
· I do so with poise and class, not with a quick temper or an ugly, begrudging heart.
These are the truths I’ve accepted; the promises I’m speaking over myself from now on. They are of Him and they are for Him. I was created with these characteristics and they are not in vain. Thank you, Jesus for creating me and leading me with passion, purpose and poise.
Much love,
Carley
