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‘The source of vision is inspiration. A vision cannot occur without an idea. The source of inspiration is passion. The source of passion is your purpose in life. We humans are created with a purpose in life and each one of us is uniquely created. So everyone has a unique journey in life. The key is to find yourself in God who gave you identity.’ – Joel Giterson

Have you ever thought about what you want to achieve in life? Life is very short and it'll be over before you know it. How will you be remembered, or better said, how do you want to be remembered? This is a very deep subject and difficult to answer. I think you’ll pursue towards it if you keep working on it.

A vision refers to a desired long-term perspective. There is no end to it. However, it’s important to have goals to work towards to. This may be long or short term goals. I like working towards personal goals and a new year is a good time to start. This allows you to annually evaluate your goals and prepare yourself for a new year. Last year I had targets and unfortunately I haven’t accomplished all of them. I will do my best to achieve more next year.

Each person leaves a legacy behind. Only you determine how this will look like. The key is to find yourself in God and to attain your passion. Only then you will excel in what you are destined for.

Let 2014 be a great year!

The joy of giving

The fact that mankind continuously wants more, is in its nature. If you’re a millionaire and you can provide your needs spacious, you’ll still want more. It is in the psychology of man. I think this is partially positive, because  it ensures that you are constantly striving forward and motivated to continue. However, there is a flip side of this tale. One seeks often material satisfactions, and people are willing to sacrifice a lot to achieve it. I am convinced that it will not give you the satisfaction that you’re looking for. The moment that a matter or a way of living becomes a habit, it will no longer fulfill your gratification.

Do you ever think of others? The society is in such a state, and I think that it always has been, that people always thinks of his/her own. This is understandable, but the awareness that you could give another joy in many different ways is often absent. You can make someone else very happy, and their gratitude can give you a beautiful feeling which is hard to describe. You can help or give to another in many forms. This could be financial assistance or maybe a favour. But simply a smile or ‘good morning’ to a stranger could also be a huge pleasure. 

I think/hope that you’ve experienced the happiness and joy of someone because of your gift or service. The trick is to help another in your current situation in a creative way. And don’t forget that this has an action/reaction effect ;).

The Present

Are you the type of person who looks constantly forward or just someone who lives by the day. Are you someone who works towards a specific day, or do you enjoy each day? Do you spend your consciousness by thinking or doing? These questions are maybe hard to answer immediately. But they do describe a part of your personality.

Every day you live is a privilege and a gift from God. I think that it's good to make plans about your future (this could be short or long term), but you shouldn’t work towards a goal at the expense of whole days/weeks or months. If you look forward, you can already see the next stage which will occur on your path. Try to make the best of the present before you proceed to a next stage in your life. 

The reason that made me think about the present is the way the world is changing. And hereby, I'm talking about the way people is living. We live in an age where speed is becoming something very important and is taking charge of our lives. Speed is associated with more stress, more busyness, and less balance. There are so many things happening in our lives and I'm wondering if we live them to the fullest. It could make your live so much more various and interesting. Try to enjoy the small details of your day. For example; Coffee! When was the last time that you enjoyed a cup of coffee at home or in a cafe without keeping an eye on time? (if you don't like coffee, maybe tea?)    

Don’t forget nor dwell on the past, but do forgive it. Be aware of the future but do no fear or worry about it. Focus on the present moment. Be curious, invent, try to live your life to the fullest and try to enjoy every single thing you do today.

Skyline Amsterdam City