November 9, 2012

Plotting My Life

I'm plotting my life.

I decided to do this after reading Storyline by Donald Miller. He encourages you to start with a timeline of your life thus far. I wrote various points indicating each major turn in my life, either positive or negative, that left me changed in some way. Some of my turns were small moments, like getting glasses in fourth grade; others were monumental, like losing my friend to cancer. But what I found as I mapped out my story was a theme of redemption. Out of all the heartbreaking moments, emerged beauty. Seeing it written out was surprising and inspiring.
Most of my existence I've just let life happen and for the most part I've been happy with it. But I don't want to continue on the path of just letting life happen. I have things I want to be intentional about--callings I feel led to pursue. I don't want to end up on my deathbed with regrets about not trying something. I've often described myself in limited ways such as unorganized or physically unfit. I don't want to assume that's just me when I have the ability to change. 
I want to be completely honest with myself about desires I wish to pursue. Not avoiding failure, but running towards it. I don't want life to pass by without my participation just because I fear being intentional. I want to dispel that fear and move forward in courage to create a story I'd like to read. It may not turn out dramatic and exciting, but I hope it will be honest and nurturing. I want to live the kind of story that continues beyond my lifespan. So I'm plotting it, just like I'd plot a novel. I'm setting up inciting incidents to force myself forward. I'm terrified and exhilarated. I'll be sharing my journey here as I go: the good, the bad and the ugly.
I'm looking forward to plotting this one simple life. Have you ever thought of plotting your life?

9 comments :

  1. this is beautiful Catherine
    i hope more follow your example
    it is such a great way to get a sincere view of our lives

    thank you for sharing your courage

    love and light

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    1. Thanks for your encouragement, Cat. It's given me a wonderfully fresh perspective.

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  2. INCREDIBLE POST...I would like to share it on my fb page... more need to hear your message. Would you be okay with that, I do understand if you say no.
    Thanks for sharing!
    dana

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  3. I've plotted my mother's life before. Was a very interesting and daunting experience. I had intended to write her biography, but I just became so overwhelmed with all the info that I put it on the back-burner ...

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    1. Jessica, that's so cool; did it change your view of her life?

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  4. very inspirational post my friend :)

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  5. This is great, Cathy! Can't wait to read more about it!

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