[blox_column width=”1/1″][/blox_column][blox_heading title=”The start, and heart, of our Middle Third.” size=”h3″ style=”style5″ animation=”none”][/blox_heading][blox_text animation=”none”]
Realization…
…this word is a noun, with a simple definition from Merriam-Webster: the state of understanding or becoming aware of something: the act of achieving something that has been planned or hoped for.
Realization characterizes the start of our Second3rd of Life. This is the decade and a half that move us from our 30th to our 45th year. It is here we are becoming aware. Achieving. More fully understanding who we are.
Realization can be compelling, invigorating, wonder-filled. It can also be incredibly frightening and difficult. It’s all part of the rich adventure of life.
We become much more aware of who we really are in this stage of life. We’ve worked through the growth and awkwardness of our teens, and experienced an awakening in our 20’s. Now, we’re settling into who we are on a deeper level.
We achieve the goals we have set our minds to, planned out, hoped for, and dedicated ourselves to. Of course, we also miss or detach from some of our goals, but we realize that God has His own plans. Usually, we recognize that His plans were better than those we imagined.
Realizing…
…who we are becomes of even deeper value. Individually, in our family structure, in our communities, and as instruments in the hands of the One who knows our whole selves and true purposes we further discover why we are here at these moments in time.
Realizing how quickly time passes, and how fleeting “achievements” can be…
Realizing what is really important in life in all of our lives…
Realizing how intentional and active God is in pursuing, shaping and leader us where He has designed for us to go…
Realizing how rich and marvelous life is, even in the messy parts…
What do we really care about?
What opinions and perspectives broaden and evolve?
We’ve “been there and done that.” There are more experiences to look forward to. Life is becoming less about our entertainment and surface-level activities. It’s becoming more about deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and appreciation of the grander journey we have been invited into.
We are in a position to help and encourage others more now than ever. We have been given more than enough to share, and yet have much to learn from our God and the triple 3rd sages in our lives.
Being there for others matters: children, family, neighbors, friends, those in need, and our communities. Satisfying self is giving way to leaving a legacy…living out our gifts, passions, and talents for the greater good.
We search for meaning. We own the responsibility of developing our selves. We seek whole life mentors who will help us discover and become who we were designed to be. We find ways to serve and give to others. We seek opportunities to experience life together.
How will we interact in our world?
What does living out of our true selves look like?
How will we spend the rest of our days?
The greatest revelation is in who we are. We see ourselves in the mirror, in each other, in our kids, and in our community. We are more in touch with what makes us unique, and how our strengths and weaknesses play out in every dimension of our lives. We are more aware of the deeper motivators, fears, and tendencies within.
New developments take place in every one of the eight dimensions of the Circle of Life: Vocational, Financial, Social, Physical, Emotional, Family & Marriage, Intellectual, Creative/Innovative/Design/Playful. Every aspect is stretched and engaged. Our faith and beliefs inform and inspire our thinking…and our living.
Real…
We are realizing what is honestly real about us. Our lives on earth don’t go on forever. Seasons end. Moments end. We get real about whole life questions…if we are paying attention.
What do I need to end, in order to live out of who I am?
What do I hope never ends…?
I’ve learned that every one of the eight dimensions in the Circle of Life matters. These have helped me pay necessary attention to what is going on in both my inner and outer worlds.
Which have I neglected?
How do I restore and energize myself in each dimension?
Being willing to get real in each dimension of life helps us become more fully alive. This is a vital part of your journey, as well as mine.
We have seen enough pain, sorrow, joy, and life to say, “it’s been a great ride, and we’re ready to go home now.” We’ve also seen enough to say, “We want to be here, in this wild and crazy world…for more.”
We are contributors, and still on the grow.
Who are you?
How can you live more completely out of the real you?
Where will your dreams take you?
What’s holding you back?
Let’s get real. This is the time to do it. For you, and all those you will impact in your remaining decades, a crucial ongoing questions is, what might we realize?
The greatest realization may be that, as important as who I am is, it’s really not about me in the end. The deeper understanding of who I am allows me to live out of my gifts and talents, and to better love and serve others for their benefit, and for my joy and fulfillment.
The Maker knows what He’s up to. And, we’re just beginning to realize…how great is that? How will realization make the next season even better?
Become real.
Realizing and living into our potential.
Realizing and understanding who we are.
Realization is the fruit that is borne of our 30’s and early 40’s.
In this first half of the Second3rd of Life, we enjoy it for what it is, and look forward with wonder and anticipation to what lies ahead. Savoring the days and the moments along the way, we have learned that each one is worthy of our gratitude and celebration. For that, and for this season, we are truly thankful.
Jim and Shelley Kirk
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