Calling All Calls

One of the subjects approached in class today was how one goes about finding one's "calling" when signs seem to point in all kinds of directions, then further complicated by financial concerns, education, natural talents, opportunities (or lack of) ... the list goes on. We were divided into pairs in order to interview each other on this subject, hopefully to stimulate creativity in the search. I was placed with an older gentleman (70, I found out) from Holland, whose English speaking skills were minimal. "Oh no," I thought, "how are we going to interview each other when we can't even understand what the other is saying?" I found the little English he spoke to be difficult to understand, although he certainly did so with gusto!

I was moved by how earnestly he tried to communicate. He gesticulated and along with dramatic facial expressions he struggled to use the few words he knew effectively. It turns out he was retired but had been some kind of transporter of "potatoes and onions" in his native Holland. He was very proud of the fact that this produce came to and from all parts of Europe and he was responsible for making sure everything got to where it was supposed to be. He felt he was being of service to his country and fellow citizens and his eyes shone when he pantomimed the large vessels and volume of business that was within the realm of his duties.

I realized that we actually had much in common. He looked beyond the "potatoes and onions" to embrace the duty and service he provided. I, too, look beyond the particular speech or presentation I address with a client and think of my job as being of service to another human being. My original intention was to be a teacher and took a different path. Becoming a coach and trainer actually returns me to my "true calling," the one I felt as a child- that of teacher and guide, in a very specific area of expertise.

Because of our verbal limitations, we did not focus so much on helping the other find his calling, but we found our common ground. This dear gentle man, Peter, also had the calling to be of service and did so through his area of expertise- the transportation of his potatoes and onions. And I know there are so many Hollanders who are so glad he did.

-Greta

London, England

9/29/10