To thine own self, be true and the rest will happen!

I took part in Strictly Come Dancing some years ago sharing in a fund-raising venture. I never enjoyed dancing and always preferred to sit and listen to music or watch others dancing. I took part to support a charity and hoped that I might develop a passion for dancing with the benefit of good coaching. The wonderful coach started by trying to engage me and my unfortunate dance partner in a nicely choreographed waltz. As the weeks went on, and despite practicing many hours more than anyone else, the choreography was reduced to little more than a heavy plod matching the beat of the waltz music! I neither won (we came last) nor did I graduate with a new hobby!

I tell this true story at a time when young people are choosing courses of study or occupations as they graduate, and wondering what they might do! I've always been passionate about education, music, parish, catechetics, writing and leadership. My heart is alive when I think or engage in any of these things. I get inspired at many times, including during the night, and can engage without time being important.

I meet many people in Lucan who are very passionate about what they do, filled with creative energy and able to make positive impact on the lives of many. Look at the difference those with passion for gardening, music, theology, medicine, cooking, teaching, journalism, IT, etc make in the community and in the world! Heartfelt, gut passion has the energy to ensure that true talent, skills and interests will find a shape that fits well. A lukewarm interest in an activity or way of life falls limp and dies. Life is too short to live it without passion.

It's a true joy to engage in conversation with someone who is passionate about what they do. I've heard the passion of: a dietician who was excited to be part new discoveries re longevity; a musician who recently found a mode of music that married with the core of their being; a person of senior years who discovered their own artistic skills; an English graduate who found that acting in Greek plays was his at-home place…

The heartfelt choice or decision, tested by the gut, is life giving. We are made as God's co-creators so that we have the natural instinct to add something to the world from the heart. Discovery and use of our unique bundle of talents brings true joy and a sense of satisfaction. For those who have not yet found that which is fuelled by passion in life, keep looking, learning, talking ... until you feel at home with who you are and what you do!

I'll never be a dancer because the skills are not among my bundle of gifts. Every practice felt like a chore and I watched the clock throughout. My tank of passion was empty to the point of bone dryness! Life is a series of beautiful adventures fuelled by the true passions and talents within. To thine own self, be true and the rest will happen!

Cathy Burke
Catechist in the Lucan Partnership of Parishes