On the Oprah’s Super Soul Conversations podcast, there’s a conversation in the archives that features two of the leading spirituality figures of our time. The first is Oprah, the famous inspirational talk-show host, and the second is Paulo Coelho, author of The Alchemist, one of the biggest selling spirituality books of our time.
Over the course of a fascinating hour-long discussion, Oprah asks Coelho about some of the spiritual principles found in The Alchemist and how to interpret them. The book’s primary message: everyone should live in the singular pursuit of their dreams.
Oprah and Coelho’s thoughts frequently merge as one, albeit with subtle shadings in the language they use. I took copious notes during my listen, writing down the key points they discussed. I then rearranged these points into the narrative you see below, with some editing on my part to shape the story.
Finding Your Personal Calling
-
Every person has a personal calling in life.
-
Your calling is your destiny or purpose. It is the reason you are here.
-
Your only job in life is to discover, honor and fulfill this calling.
-
Your calling is a potential given to you by God. Your job is to realize this potential.
-
If you’re like most people, your calling is related to what makes you enthusiastic and happy.
-
Though you may know your calling, does not mean you will fulfill it.
-
To fulfill your calling, takes courage. You need to move forward without fearing the unknown.
-
You must listen to your heart. Give in to your fears and you will no longer hear the voice of the heart.
-
Ask yourself: Is my heart is open to embrace every moment, every person, every element of my life?
-
When necessary, be prepared to fight for your dream. In your pursuit, don’t take “no” for an answer.
-
Use every bit of your will power, desire and enthusiasm, then surrender to the flow of life.
-
Look at everything like you are seeing it for the first time.
-
You may be tested but don’t lose faith. While there may be obstacles, you can always get back on track.
-
God will guide you, even if you take wrong steps; especially if you take wrong steps.
-
Listen. Pay attention to the world for cues and signs.
-
The Universe in on your side and will rise up to meet you and help fulfill your destiny.