At some point, the pressure and the responsibility will set in and the once ambitious child becomes redirected and focused on what she must accomplish, rather than doing what she enjoys. Along the journey through college, she struggles to define her purpose, working hard at selecting beneficial classes that support her goal. Her minor will change three or four times and her major may change too.  Eventually she gets a degree and begins her career.

A new dream surfaces, one that includes marriage, children and the white picket fence. Now little miss-ambitious is a mom and a wife. At times she feels she has lost her individuality. She has done everything in the order that society requires. Yet she feels incomplete. Everything about her screams family and obligation. What could possibly be missing from this picture perfect life?

Passion!

No, I’m not referring to intimacy. I am talking about the kind of passion that wakes you in the middle of the night from a deep sleep. The kind of passion you can not deny because something inside propels you to act. It’s the unstoppable urge to fulfill a need. That one thing that screams in your mind, “I’ve found my purpose.”

Think about what your passion is. Do you like to bake? Do you like to play piano? Do you like to race? Do you like to garden? Many hobbies develop into lucrative businesses. I have read stories about stay home mom’s creating unique items and selling them online. Some women volunteer their extra time to organizations and causes that have touched their lives. Other women participate in recreational sports such as sailing, golf, volleyball and archery. Life provides unlimited options to pursue and accomplish by believing in yourself and fulfilling your needs, not just the needs of your family.

Discovering my passion for writing was an enlightening experience. For so many years stories and poems would develop in my imagination and I use to think one day, when I retire, I will write a book. I was blessed to have been given the opportunity earlier than expected. While on sabbatical, I was able to define what I would do without carrying the burden of bringing home an income. I let my imagination run wild and within one year, two books were written and published. Not only was publishing the books an achievement, I successfully discovered my pure enjoyment came from writing children’s books. My carefree youthful spirit was rediscovered.

I continue to share optimistic and positive thoughts in the form of inspirational and philosophical poetry. Writing allows me to be that ambitious child again, doing what I love in my spare time.

Following your passion is a vital ingredient to “happily ever after.”

Perhaps you can’t always make a living pursing your passion, but your life will be enriched when you follow your passion and thrive!

-D.L. Carroll