This week’s thought is on purpose. Being on this travel journey has made, not only myself, but Ernest as well, realize a lot about what we want in life.

Prior to this journey, I questioned my purpose in life. I knew that I needed a purpose, however I didn’t know what it was. After trying to find meaning, I thought I finally did when I reached my goal of being able to retire early. I felt that the slow travels and the experience of living like locals in unfamiliar places would make me happy. This would bring different experiences, feelings and thoughts; expanding my mind and my understanding of people and their cultures.

Although this experience has expanded my mind, I realized that this was not the purpose I was after.

The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honourable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~

I’ve learned that I was searching for a “grand” meaning, but my meaning was already there. It took being away to see it, but I now know what impact it has made.

Have you ever thought about the meaning of life?

P.S. Get the inside scoop with more Thursday Thoughts here.