the alchemist

Western Coast of Ireland from our trip in 05'

A few weeks ago I read "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho and its truths have been following me around ever since. Whenever words of wisdom reach a deep place in my soul, I like to marinate in them for a few days. Whispered messages are sheer and delicate, so easy to flutter away. Better to hold them close for a bit and let them take root in your own spirit before peppering others with their goodness. So with that said I won't try and spread all the insight I gained from the book, only the fragment that has sealed its foothold on my heart and is ready to stem forward.

We each have specific calling (Coelho uses the word "legend") and to fulfill it should be our commitment. God fashioned each of us with a purpose and a personality to match. Shy. Bold. Humble. Confident. We have a distinct role to execute and satisfy, building the beautiful patchwork quilt that is humankind. What really touched me (the part that sunk into my heart) is the understanding that by not following our true calling we are actually doing a disservice to ourselves, the world, and the Creator.

Ryan and I talk often of our parallel journey and how to live our best life as partners and as individuals. When degree, career, and ambitions become murky and our individual calling lacks clarity, we are comforted knowing part of our calling as partners is to parenthood...and in that layer of our expedition we are living our legend. Yea Teddy!