Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said, “The ultimate measure of a man (woman) is not where he (she) stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he (she) stands in times of challenge and controversy.” We are in challenging times and I believe we still have more difficult days ahead. To navigate the challenges we are facing, we must be willing to show up and do what we are called to do. Oftentimes we do not know or understand what our assignment in life is causing us to not know what to do next. Sometimes it takes a difficult situation, or catastrophe to reveal what we are called or capable to do. Are you willing to rise and fulfill your assignment even if it is difficult or not what you originally thought you would do in life?
Many of us are hurting right now and we feel stuck because we do not know what to do next or how we can continue to make a difference. We marched, we protested, we donated money, we made our voices heard across various platforms and now we are asking what do I do now? How do we achieve justice and equality that will be sustained and not just be a passing phase? Or how does what I do really help in the long run? In my conversations with friends and family some have shared they feel confused, anxious, and are experiencing levels of fear and doubt wondering if what we are fighting for will last. Some have even expressed they do not know if they even matter. The answer is yes you matter. This fight matters.
Whenever I get to a place where I feel like I am going in circles and I need to get off the merry go round, I remind myself of my meaning, message, and mission. All of us can get sidetracked by the things going on around us and get off track. Before we know it, we look up and we are on a road that we have no idea how we got there. If you have already discovered what your true calling in life is, just go back to your core to your center. Our meaning is our calling or assignment, our message is what we say or how we carry out our assignment, and our mission is ultimately the achievement of that assignment or our purpose.
Understanding one’s assignment is not always easy, especially when you are someone that has many gifts or talents. However, what I always think about is what do you naturally gravitate towards? As the saying goes, what would you do even if you were not getting paid? What do people say you do well? Is there anything that puts pep in your step, and you look forward to doing it or working on it every time you get a chance? When you have these answers, you are on your way to understanding your assignment.
Once we know and understand our assignment we can then and only then contribute to the greater good. We are all part of the puzzle and the picture will not come together to become the piece of art it is meant to be until we are all willing to do our assignment. We are in a time of controversy and if we want to get through this tough time, we are going to have to put aside our ego and pride and focus on what needs to be done. My assignment is to share the importance of extending grace, kindness, love, and forgiveness as we move through this process. Yes, unjust people and systems must cease, and new processes be put in place that are mandated for everyone to follow. Resolution will not be achieved without conversation and the willingness for change. We have lost enough battles, now is time for all of us to work together to win this war on humanity. Will you join me?
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on!
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is an international coach, consultant, trainer, author and speaker. She can also be found live on Instagram @Wendygladney on Wednesdays at 12 noon PST.
