Empowerment =

The Oxford Dictionary defines empowerment as “authority or power given someone to do something” and “the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s own life and claiming one’s rights.” Many of us walk through life allowing circumstances to happen to us as if do not have control over anything in our lives. While I may not have control over every circumstance that befalls me, I do have control over the direction of my life and how I make meaning of the circumstances of my life. I often say: when things don’t make sense, make meaning. Meaning making is the process by which I determine how I am going to use what has happened to me as fuel for my soul’s work.

For many years now I have been working to use the circumstances of my life for both personal growth and to help others grow. I also help care-seekers through the meaning making process so they can live empowered, powerful lives. How? I’m glad you asked.

First, I explored my inner world and embraced a sense of calling. I believe we all have gifts and passions that clue us in to what we are meant to share with the world. Sometimes it’s scary to follow that small voice pushing you, almost begging you, to follow it and live an authentic life. But honestly, ignoring that inner calling often leads to a life of torture spent wandering aimlessly.

Which leads us to my second point:

One of the ways to control one’s own life is with purposeful movement. Instead of reacting defensively to life, purposeful movement allows us to walk through our lives according to our deeply held beliefs and values. We can move with purpose and on purpose when we know what we believe and what concepts we hold near and dear. For example, I am a truth teller. I am called to speak truth to power, so clear communication is a deeply held value. When I engage care-seekers I check in often to make sure they are feeling heard and understood, and to determine if they are understanding what I’m communicating. When you move with purpose you increase your confidence in your ability to trust your own wisdom and co-create your desired story.

Finally, life hold its fair share of mystery, even with regards to empowerment…

Honestly, there is a piece of empowerment that can only be described as divine fire. Sometimes, I don’t want to speak truth to power. Sometimes, I don’t want to preach. Sometimes, I would rather be quiet. But as Jeremiah 20:9 reads, if I don’t, it becomes “like fire shut up in my bones.” So when I am tired, I rest…then, I lean into the power of the Divine Creator to do what I’m on this earth to do. My power is limited, but God’s power is unlimited and available to me to do my soul’s work.

This week take some time to explore the things you’re passionate about as you lean into your sense of calling and move with purpose and on purpose. Then find ways to tap into the power of the Divine to supercharge your mission!

What resonated with you today? I’d love to hear about it!

If you’d like some support discerning your calling or exploring your beliefs and values, you can book an individual spiritual care session by clicking the button below.

I love you!

I mean it, mean it, MEAN IT!!!

-The Funky Chaplain