I am sure that all of my two followers noticed the name change of my blog. I am not sure if I will stick with "Pursuing Wisdom" but I feel it is much more fitting for a boring blog such as this. Now, if one looks at the title they can at least know what it is I often write about.
Aside from this applicable change, I plan to start a new blog once I arrive in Zambia. I hope to make it more interesting, with more pictures/less intense topics of discussion. Although that is the plan, I doubt it will be the case, considering so many vivid affairs take place in developing countries.
From here out, the blog will mainly consist of my reflections on different books or ideas I run across in my search for understanding in this world. Some specific topics I may address are faith, prayer, the Holy Spirit, fasting, etc. I hope that by blogging any information I obtain, it can serve as a good reference later on. I would like to eventually post some question and answer segments with men that I highly respect and view as being wise.
Yesterday, I read The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. I am a firm believer that as Christians we are called to make a difference in the world; that we have a purpose here on Earth. After sharing these opinions with a friend, she recommended I read Coelho's novel. Although it started off slow, the story gradually caught my attention and became very thought provoking towards the end. This is the only book by Coelho that I have read, but these few pages were plenty to accredit his brilliance. The Alchemist gives a whole new meaning to prayer and relationship with God, the creator. During one section of the story, the main character, Santiago, becomes one with the wind. The way Coelho writes this section allowed me to somewhat grasp the role that the hand of God plays in the universe; however, I was not able to hang on to this realization long. I do not know that anyone is capable of doing so.
Coelho addresses four obstacles in which he feels can interfere with one discovering their "personal legend." Throughout The Alchemist, Coelho uses the words "personal legend" as one's calling from "the hand." "The hand" is God and someone's "personal legend" is God's calling in their life. For the rest of this exert I will simply refer to the hand's personal legend as God's calling or purpose for each person. Also, Coelho talks about listening to our hearts; which to me would be the Holy Spirit or conscious. For practical purposes, when I say Spirit, I am referring to the Holy Spirit (trinity), which comes from Jesus.
The first obstacle is our disbelief. We are unable to pursue what we have been called to do, simply because the Spirit is drowned out through the process of growing up. All throughout life one may be lead to believe that their dreams are impossible. “When I had my sheep, I was happy, and I made those around me happy. People saw me coming and welcomed me. But now I’m sad and alone. I’m going to become bitter and distrustful of people because one person betrayed me. I’m going to hate those who have found their treasure because I never found mine. And I’m going to hold on to what little I have, because I’m too insignificant to conquer the world.” -Santiago in The Alchemist. We doubt ourselves, saying “Maybe this isn't truly my calling." We settle for less, assuming that we were wrong to begin with. Before making a difference in the world, one will be tested severely and must continue to fight.
According to Coelho, the second step to overcome is love. Although I do not feel that this step would hinder my purpose; love can put an end to any dream in a hurry. There is no need to explain this point, when everyday we see people put an end to their education, jobs, goals, etc. over a person they love. Whether it be family or friends, love can be a hindrance. Jesus discusses this in the Bible, by teaching that a true disciple is able to leave behind anything or anyone in order to further his kingdom. Your spouse has to be by your side. She has to be in tune with your calling; or you must move on alone. True love will not hold you back, but allow you to pursue what is right.
Next, is the fear of defeat. Although we may know which path to take it often seems impossible. We immediately begin to doubt ourselves and wonder how silly we are for believing that we could make a difference. We must be comforted, knowing God and the Spirit dwell within us; being at peace and joy with Jesus Christ.
Last, is the slippery wall that causes one's calling to slip away. This is what Coelho refers to as a fear of realization. We must strive towards our goal and once it is reached, we must not feel undeserving. The prize at the ended is to be accepted; knowing that it is well deserved. The fear of realization can often cause us to allow the prize to slip away.
Each of these barriers could be discussed to a much greater extent, but I would like to reflect on one more obstacle that came to mind. This may fall under one of Coelho's categories; just not specifically. This is what I would call the routine and chore barrier. Everyday I obligate myself to simple jobs and chores that stand in the way of God's calling in my life. We often allow simple pleasures and relationships to blind us in furthering our purpose. Why? Because it is simple. Because it is easy. Because it is normal. Because we do not have to be afraid when we take the simple route. No one will challenge your ability. By following the routine, we can avoid disappointment and disbelief from not only others, but ourselves.
Few people take the path that God has laid out for them, but that should not be the case for Christians. We shall not be threatened by the world. God has set a path for us, but nothing fictional. Something real, which is guided by the Holy Spirit that dwells within. When we open up to God and allow him to guide us, it is vital that we take action when necessary, which can mean putting your life on the line. Therefore, knowing the calling that God has for us does not make us indestructible. Throughout the fulfillment of one's purpose, one is still susceptible to everything under the sun. For a person to become who they potentially are is required in order to fulfill a calling. As Christians, we each play a vital role in the direction of the world. It is necessary that we discover this role in order that we may fulfill the purpose for which it has been given to us.
