I ended yesterday’s reflection by saying that we need to pay attention to our stories because our stories determine what we see. Dark stories see only dark possibilities. Frightening stories see only danger. Angry stories see only aggression. By contrast, stories grounded in hope uncover life’s possibilities. Stories rooted in wisdom see a safe path through life. Stories rooted in love see only brothers and sisters. However, if we want to fully avail ourselves of all the grace that is available we must practice absolute wakefulness. In order to remain awake, we must have a clearly articulated mission statement. Without a mission statement, we tend to be driven by the winds of our circumstances, moods, and habitual tendencies—what the yogis refer to as karma.
A personal mission statement is rooted in our deepest values, that which gives our life meaning. It is essential to know that our mission statement cannot be about happiness. Like trying to nail jello to a tree, the more we make happiness the goal, the more elusive it becomes. True happiness is always an unintended consequence of a life which is purposeful, noble, and well lived. A personal mission statement shapes our lives, directs our energies, and guides our actions. In addition, a clearly articulated mission statement helps to organize our emotions in a positive way and give us mental clarity. A personal mission statement creates boundaries that makes decision-making easier. When we truly know what we are about, it is easier to say no to those possibilities that are outside of our mission.
In order to remain awake,
I must have a mission statement
Which is written on my heart
And in the forefront of my consciousness.
