Part 3 (Embracing the Next Chapter of Life)
I found that what Amanda shared with me was right on point. I was fortunate to leave the profession in my early 40’s and begin a new chapter in my life, whereby I am engaged daily with others and creating a new identity.
However, there are many, and I mean many, who make a life-long career out of law enforcement. I commend those who answered such calling and I remain grateful for the contribution you have made. For those who fall into that category, this is where social engagement is crucial and critical to continuing your purpose filled life.
Amanda suggested that purpose in life is not defined by what we do for a living, it is defined by who we elevate while living our lives. Our purpose does not necessarily stop when we take that uniform off for the last time. It was never the uniform that gave us purpose. Our purpose has to come from within.
Law enforcement was just a conduit that allowed each of us to answer the call to serve. Service takes on many forms and can be continued in whatever capacity you choose. It doesn’t have to stop, just because the pension started.
I was grateful to hear Amanda share these thoughts. For years I questioned and wondered what my purpose was. I read books such as “Mans Search for Meaning” by Vickto Frankl. I listened to pod casts and anything I could to get my hands on to get that lightbulb in my head to turn on and help me identify my purpose in life.
I mistakenly believed that my career path and purpose in life had to be one in the same. I had spent over 40 years of my life searching for my purpose, only realizing now, just how naïve I was. Again, our purpose in life is not defined by what we do for a living, it is defined by who we elevate while living our lives. Restated: YOUR purpose in life is not defined by what you DO for a living, it is defined by WHO you elevate while LIVING.