As the host of Mind, Body, Spirit Inspirational Talk Radio, I am honored each week to hear the stories of my guests. I learn how they developed into the healers, authors, and artists they are today. Often these teachers have evolved in their life’s work from previous careers. One guest used to be a singer/songwriter and now tours the world as a dynamic life coach and inspirational speaker, a physician is now an author and lecturer changing the world through education.
I am struck by the number of guests who have had a near–death experience or “miraculous spiritual awakening” that fueled the dramatic changes in their work. Once they look death squarely in the face or commune with their Divine Nature, they resolve to be more and do more with their time on Earth. They develop a sense of inner connection that guides them “from the heart” and follows a larger plan. These people are enthused about their purpose and delight in sharing it with the world.
However, the transformation from one career or identity to a new one may be riddled with pain and a sense of loss. I experienced this identity crisis when I moved to Hawaii form California three years ago. I had to let go of my role as the “perfect mom” who put the needs of my children first and foremost in my life and follow the guidance my heart was giving me: to heal myself and bring my gifts to the world in a larger way. My Spirit was crying out for me to have mercy and compassion for myself and to let me live my dream, even though none of my four children, friends, clients or students wanted me to make the move. I felt compelled to model the skill of listening to one’s heart and following through with change, even if it means disappointing others.
My heart hurt and I struggled as I went through feelings of guilt and doubt as I let go of my old world and jumped boldly into my new one. I didn’t know anyone in Maui and had to trust I was being led by forces greater than me, and that my relationships with my family and associates would be OK or even improve. I released the need for approval and welcomed the open potential of life, though doubt and fear crept in at times. Today I have a blossoming community, a thriving career and sense of purpose and the love and respect of my children and friends both old and new.
I realized that I deserved to have more happiness and health in my life. The “new me” needed more fertile soil to grow brighter and stronger. Maui has been the perfect environment for my deepest visions to come true.
Ultimately, our vision for ourselves rests in our deepest spiritual understanding of who we are, beyond all known limitations or roles, down to the very core of our essence as beings of light. Just as my radio guests have evolved from many professions and roles into dynamic personalities following their calling, we all have the ability to choose to follow that call of our Higher Selves and though met with profound challenges, become the people we were meant to be.
