Triple Falls, Oregon
Do you have a job, a career, or a calling? This is beautifully illustrated with the story of three workers. When asked what he did, the first man responded, "I am laying bricks." The other answered, "I am making a wall." And the third man replied, "I am building a cathedral."
A lot of people are content with their 9-5 jobs. They arrive at work, check the boxes, and clock out. It's the only responsible way to pay the bills, cover the mortgage, and provide for their family. But if asked, they would rather be somewhere else, doing something else.
Others are actively climbing the career ladder. Hungry for the next promotion. Their eyes are on the prize, always aiming for the higher rung. Putting in overtime and motivated by an internal drive for more growth, power and prestige. Their purposeful and relentless work ethic is admirable to some.
But the most generous, inspiring and transformative people I know are those who have a calling. They would do what they do even if they weren't getting paid. It makes them come alive. It's why they were put here on earth. They are enthusiastic and their work changes us. They are the cathedral builders and they get me all fired up and excited and have me sketching and brainstorming and placing bricks down. Because now I've decided that I want to build a cathedral too.
There's risk involved. It might not work. People may not like it. But at the end of my life, I don't want to be staring at a brick. I want to be gazing upward, wide-eyed with wonder through the stained glass windows of my life. Wouldn't you?