The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote, "The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet," holds profound wisdom that transcends religious boundaries and speaks to the fundamental human quest for purpose and fulfillment. This statement underscores the idea that our true calling, the purpose we are meant to fulfill in life, arises at the intersection of our inner passion and the needs of the world around us.
At its core, this quote encourages individuals to seek a meaningful and fulfilling life by aligning their personal passions, talents, and inclinations with the broader needs of society. It suggests that we find our true calling when we identify what truly makes us happy and combines it with the greater good of the world. This concept is not limited to religious contexts but rather encompasses the universal pursuit of purpose and the desire to make a positive impact on the world.
To delve deeper into the quote's meaning, let's break it down:
1. **"The place God calls you to"**: The phrase "the place God calls you to" can be interpreted differently by people of various faiths or worldviews. It represents a higher purpose, a calling that transcends mere personal desires, suggesting that we are each called to contribute to something greater than ourselves.
2. **"Where your deep gladness"**: This part refers to what genuinely brings joy and fulfillment to an individual. It points to the importance of self-awareness, self-discovery, and understanding one's own passions and talents. It encourages individuals to identify what makes them come alive and truly happy.
3. **"And the world's deep hunger"**: The "world's deep hunger" represents the unmet needs and challenges that exist in society. It could be societal issues, environmental concerns, humanitarian causes, or any other area where positive change and assistance are required. It encourages individuals to be aware of the suffering and challenges in the world and to consider how they can address these issues.
4. **"Meet"**: The meeting point symbolizes the convergence of personal fulfillment and contributing to the greater good. It implies that when an individual's deep gladness aligns with the world's deep hunger, they have found their calling – the ideal place to make a significant impact and find a sense of purpose.
In essence, this quote emphasizes the importance of living a purpose-driven life. It suggests that when we pursue what brings us joy and align it with addressing the world's needs, we can find a profound sense of meaning. It's a call to action for each person to explore their passions, gifts, and talents, and to use them in ways that benefit not only themselves but also the larger community and the world as a whole. It inspires individuals to seek that harmonious intersection where their happiness and the world's betterment coincide, thus making the world a better place while finding personal fulfillment in the process.
Who said the quote?
The quote "The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet." is often attributed to Frederick Buechner (Quotes). Frederick Buechner is a celebrated American writer and theologian, acclaimed for his insightful reflections on faith and life.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.