During his inaugural speech on January 20, 1961, John F. Kennedy famously said: “Ask not what your country can do for you- ask what you can do for your country.”
I am repeating a phrase from that inspirational moment however to convey a broader message. ‘Ask what you can do’ applies across our lives, 360 degrees, 24/7. Ask what you can do to grow, develop and become your best self more often. ‘Ask what you can do’ to make your corner of the world a little bit better. ‘Ask what you can do’ to help others along the way as you journey through life.
Victor Frankel (Man’s Search for Meaning) spoke an awesome truth when he said, “The meaning of life is not a question we get to ask of life, rather it is one life asks of us.” It is up to us to find meaning and purpose in our life, and I have found that once one moves beyond the most basic level of Maslow’s hierarchy, pursuing worthwhile purpose has brought me more satisfaction than anything else.
Closing Quotes:
“The purpose of life is a life of purpose.” – Robert Byrne
“Bit by bit, better every day; helping others along the way.” – NSC personal affirmation
“There is no greater gift you can give or receive than to honor your calling. It’s why you were born. And how you become most truly alive.” – Oprah Winfrey
As always, I share what I most want and need to learn. – Nathan S. Collier