The gap between doing and becoming is vast. For me, it is difficult to make the leap between being a participant and taking on an identity.
Running. I have run for exercise and pleasure for about 7 years. I run. I’ve ran races and I’ve had running partners, running friends. I’ve spent over two hours on a treadmill before. I run. But when someone asks me if I am a RUNNER, I really find it hard to say yes. Saying, “I am a runner” denotes an added responsibility, a commitment to being something. It means that running is no longer an activity for me, but a part of who I am. It says I am experienced. It is taking the bounding jump between the doing and the being.
Writing. Someone asked me on Friday if I was a writer…I stammered, stuttered. “Well, yes, kindof, I blog, I write, maybe…, if blogging is writing, then yes, sortof”. The bounding jump between the doing and the being. I hadn’t made a decision yet about my level of commitment or of how much I am dedicated to identifying with writing. How much of this is a part of my identity? Is this part of who I am.
Incidentally, while I was running on Saturday, I reached the top of the hill. I slowed down for a couple minutes to touch the pole before I turned around to go home. I think I decided to become, rather than just do. I made a conscious choice to become a writer than to merely write. I guess it is part of growing up, to take the bounding leap to the other side, to the side of responsibility.
I am a runner, a writer, a wife and mother. I am a lover of God. These are the things that I claim. These are the things I am. Other things, I do. This is what I am becoming.
I envy you in a good way—I could never claim to be a runner or a writer. I am glad you made the decision to identify and mark your life with both of these. You are talented in both—-areas where most of us, common folk, struggle.
You are all those things and more – you are an encourager and motivator to those who read your blog and someday who will read your other writings. I am a bit envious of you – I am still working on figuring out “who I am” It will come, it is like you said -I need to choose and be content with that decision! Thanks for your post today it really hit home!
You are so special. I love reading your blog and leaving feeling so encouraged.
Thank you for that!
People ask me if I’m an artist and I don’t know what to say. I like to create–does that make me an artist? Doesn’t someone else have to assign a title to me or can I claim it for myself? You are definitely a writer, a runner, a mommy, a wife, a friend and so many other wonderful things. Love you.
Sarah,
It is so easy for us to be identified just by what we do. Isn’t that often a first small talk question, ” So, what do you do?” (as in a position, our job)
A few years ago at a conference workshop I attended, we were asked to introduce ourselves not by our title, but by what we did. It was so cool to hear the descriptions, rather than a formal given label.
That was so well put. To me, when I think about owning up to “who I am, and what I do” … it places both excitement and fear in me at the same time. There is that element of “failing” at what I do and who I am. Does that makes sense? There is a sense of responsibility on us to live up to who we say we are. Just don’t talk the talk… walk the walk right. But, be proud of that. It’s a part of you. It IS who you are!! Thanks for the great reminder….
This is great. Congratulations on taking the step, and making your claim!
This is something I should figure out in my life as well.
I’m keeping you and your family in my heart and prayers as well as all of those in your area who are affected by those massive fires. I hope that the peace will come soon for all.
I really enjoy your blog and dont know where I found it, but am always inspired by you, esp. your encouragement to run a marathon!and your gentle advice.
Everyday is the best day!
Take care,
sincerly
Samantha
I love…really love this post! Just great insight, and a lot for me to think about. Thanks for challenging me with this!