What is your deepest commitment?

I had the privilege of participating in a workshop recently where a number of us worked on our declarations–essentially, our truest commitments that guide our sense of purpose and meaning.

With some guided wisdom and compassion from deeply embodied instructors, I refined a vow that I had originally made 7 years ago:

I am a commitment to serve with dignity and ease in the collective awakening and healing of all beings.

Why dignity? I feel called to fully reclaim the honor of what was often missing in my upbringing – a son of poor Turkish immigrants with grade-school level education who provided what they could. Through their hard work and grace, I became the first to graduate from college. Yet, the stigma of looking and being different has sat in my body for as long as I remember. Something more vibrant has been emerging. An appreciation for overcoming many hardships and living into wide open possibilities.  A sense of dignity and freedom from self-limiting thoughts.

Why ease? My conditioned response to life events and circumstances was to over-effort, be the best, and avoid mistakes at all cost. That also took its toll on my health and well-being. When I’m centered and fully present, a lightness and ease brings me groundedness and expansive connection. 

These principles and my on-going practices to embody them allow me to fully commit to serving others, which is the declaration I live by–whether I’m coaching, being a partner, a father to two amazing daughters, or a friend to whoever I have the honor of being with.

So, what’s your deepest commitment in life? What does your heart and body say about this? What will it take to overcome obstacles to stand by what you are called to?

There will always be change around us. When grounded in purpose, we can withstand the storms. Dare I say, we can even flourish.