The concept of "calling"

[cybercoma]

It seems to me that the notion of calling, which was originally a religious concept, no longer bears the religious connotation it once had. I'm wondering if people believe in the notion of calling and whether that belief is secular or religious.

[cybercoma]

The poll is anonymous, btw.

[Bonam]

I picked the nothing to do with god option. I think what people define as calling probably varies quite a bit. Personally, I just see it as a deep/persistent desire to do/achieve something specific in one's life.

[Guest Manny]

God does not micro-manage the universe. God is more like a gambler. Actions in the universe are based on probabilities, which lead to likely/ unlikely outcomes but there is no certainty. Randomness and chaos exists on a small scale, but on a grand scale there is a structure, there is direction and momentum toward some unknown end. So that we humans as individuals have the freedom to choose.

[Black Dog]

I thought this thread was going to be about how nobody uses the phone anymore, it's all just texting and e-mail.

[Moonlight Graham]

Also depends your concept of "God". To me, God is some great natural force. I liken it to "mother nature". If nature creates a person who can naturally throw a baseball 100mph, and they love playing it, that could be considered a "calling".

To me just about everyone has one or many great passions that drive their whole being and give their life true meaning and goals. Some people have this but are for some reason ie: working at a job they consider boring when they have other passions they just don't take the risk to pursue. But i suppose a "calling" or passion certainly doesn't have to be a paid job. Can be being a parent also.

If you listen to Tony Robbins he says that one of the main sources of depression is people not pursuing their passions that give them great inner meaning and satisfaction.

[fellowtraveller]

Tony Robbins definitely has a calling: fleecing the lost and gullible by telling them what to do,say and think.

It is almost like a religion.

The major difference is the taxable status of his assets vs His assets.

Man created God, therefore any conceivable construct - including a calling- is entirely possible once you take that leap of faith.

[fellowtraveller]

I do have to admit that a belief in 'calling' has a major personal advantage.

If it turns out you were wrong and you hate what you do, or suck at what you do after committing everything to it, you can always blame God for blowing your assignment.