"Basil famously argued that surplus isn’t a matter of private discretion; it’s a matter of withheld obligation. Writing that while standing in a job transition is a peculiar spiritual exercise. It has brought me to a place of unexpected clarity: I have everything I need." That last sentence is something we forget, but incredibly important when we look at the needs in this country and the world. Amazing how and when we see our lives with new clarity. Thank you for sharing, and yes, I'll be praying that you find the place where your skills, faith, and heart will be a great service.
Thank you so much for those words and for your prayers—they mean more to me than I can say. You’re right; it is a sentence we forget far too easily. In the corporate world, the "Ledger" is designed to make us feel perpetually "short"—of time, of hitting targets, or of security. It’s a machine built on the idea of "not enough."
But standing here now, I’m realizing that the "shift" Charles Taylor talks about—from being porous to the world to being buffered against it—usually happens because we’re afraid. We buffer ourselves with titles and bank accounts. To finally say, "I have all I need," feels like taking off a heavy suit of armor I didn't even realize I was wearing.
I’m truly excited to find that next "post of duty." Whether it’s helping a family find a stable home or making sure a neighbor has enough to eat, I want to be where the "Hinge" is actually moving. I’ll be sure to keep you posted as the path clears. I hope you’re doing well, and I’m so grateful for your friendship during this transition.
When you walk with a friend through life changes/challenges, you can offer a boost, but you also learn along with them. Your thoughtful, open-hearted posts are good reading!
"Basil famously argued that surplus isn’t a matter of private discretion; it’s a matter of withheld obligation. Writing that while standing in a job transition is a peculiar spiritual exercise. It has brought me to a place of unexpected clarity: I have everything I need." That last sentence is something we forget, but incredibly important when we look at the needs in this country and the world. Amazing how and when we see our lives with new clarity. Thank you for sharing, and yes, I'll be praying that you find the place where your skills, faith, and heart will be a great service.
Virginia,
Thank you so much for those words and for your prayers—they mean more to me than I can say. You’re right; it is a sentence we forget far too easily. In the corporate world, the "Ledger" is designed to make us feel perpetually "short"—of time, of hitting targets, or of security. It’s a machine built on the idea of "not enough."
But standing here now, I’m realizing that the "shift" Charles Taylor talks about—from being porous to the world to being buffered against it—usually happens because we’re afraid. We buffer ourselves with titles and bank accounts. To finally say, "I have all I need," feels like taking off a heavy suit of armor I didn't even realize I was wearing.
I’m truly excited to find that next "post of duty." Whether it’s helping a family find a stable home or making sure a neighbor has enough to eat, I want to be where the "Hinge" is actually moving. I’ll be sure to keep you posted as the path clears. I hope you’re doing well, and I’m so grateful for your friendship during this transition.
Peace,
Pete
When you walk with a friend through life changes/challenges, you can offer a boost, but you also learn along with them. Your thoughtful, open-hearted posts are good reading!