You know that thing about finding meaning in life? The quest to do more…to give back…to feel like you made a difference? It’s an itch that, when it starts, you simply have to scratch.
You might remember my post from a couple of moths ago where I expressed my dissatisfaction with the 9-5 routine and the feeling of being trapped on the other side of a window. You might also remember a couple of other posts on women, who because of the label of disability stamped on them, led lives very different from those ordained “normal.”
And finally you might remember my saying that I am no doctor or nurse – I can’t derive meaning from my work the way they do. I can’t save lives. I can only write.
Well, there’s been some change in my life as you might have guessed from my last post.
I have chosen a role where, through my writing, I can make a tangible difference in someone’s life.
Through my writing, I can bring in money to help doctors and nurses provide the best care to the most critical patients.
An uninsured breast cancer victim might get diagnosed and treated because a hospital just received a grant to get a cutting-edge piece of equipment or additional staff resources. A disturbed teenager, on the verge of committing suicide, might get a behaviorial health specialist to visit with him because of a grant that allows for special staff commitment to the issue.
Grants that came about because of proposals, case statements, and concept papers I wrote.
I suddenly feel empowered.
It’s not just about storytelling anymore. It’s about telling stories that have an impact on the lives of the local community. It’s about deriving a sense of satisfaction from my work.
Some might say that I traded one 9-5 for another. Technically, yes. But the role I am in now makes me feel more liberated and at the same time more responsible.
I feel, for the first time in my life, that I have the power to make a difference by doing what I do best.
I haven’t packed my suitcases and embarked on that anthology-building-travel-expedition, yet, but I can see that as being the next big step.
As I get adjusted to my new environs and take stock of my responsibilities, I won’t be blogging more than once a week.
For those of you used to hearing from me every day, this is quite a transition … and I hope you know how much I appreciate your patience and support through this journey.
Best,
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Fabulous! To have an impact like that. May you find much fulfillment in this new 9-5. Peace
That’s fantastic! I wish you splendid journeys ahead, the best of luck for achieving goals that you aspire to, and blessings abound to carry you through it all, insha’Allah…
Ameen
Congratulations. This is really great and I am sure you will do great in the new role. All the best.
I am so proud and happy for you. What you are doing reflects thinking and going for the real meaning in Life. I wish you every success! Congratulations,
Helen
With a vision like that, I am sure that you will soar! Your writing is very lucid and sincere. Wish you all the best in your endeavours to make the world a better place
I trust the first 4 months offered many opportunities for fulfillment. Hopefully you are settling in well. I admire you for finding a way to use your considerable skill to make a difference. Congratulations!