Why am I here?

Back in High School, I asked one of my friends, “What is the meaning of life?” Expecting some tired answer from the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Universe (Remember “42”), my friend answered differently. He replied, “Have Fun.” At the time, I found the answer actually insightful and very surprising considering the source. But after much reflection, his response was actually hollow. Really, think about. We have been placed on this earth for the only expressed purpose to “have fun.” If this answer is true, by what I see of the world, there isn’t much fun about it - at least not 24 hours a day, seven days of week. Whose definition of “fun” are we using? There must be more, so let’s re-phrase the question.

Why am I here? In posing this question, I have to consider whether the response would be universal for everyone or would only be applicable to me. Furthermore, where would I even look for an answer to this? To help answer this question for myself, I’ve decided to use the mission-vision approach.

What is a Mission? Companies use mission statements to explain the reason that the business exists. For example, Microsoft’s mission is that “We work to help people and businesses throughout the world realize their full potential.” Nike’s mission is “Innovate for a better world.” Disney’s mission is “To make people happy.” Arby’s mission is “Quality Food, Fast and Friendly.” 3M’s mission is “To solve unsolved problems innovatively.”

So, if I apply this technique, my mission would be the overall purpose for my life. The statement should resonate with me and inspire me. My mission should help guide me and prioritize what I do each and every day.

What is a Vision? Companies use vision statements to describe the desired outcome of the business and the plan to achieve it. The statements can be one sentence or multiple paragraphs. Microsoft’s vision is “Create experiences that combine the magic of software with the power of Internet services across a world of devices.” Nike’s vision is “To Bring Inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world.” Disney’s vision is “To be one of the world's leading producers and providers of entertainment and information, using its portfolio of brands to differentiate its content, services and consumer products.” Arby’s vision is “To provide an exceptional dining experience that satisfies our guests' grown-up tastes by being ‘Cut-Above’ in everything we do.” 3M’s vision is “3M is committed to actively contributing to sustainable development through environmental protection, social responsibility and economic progress.”

Again, by applying this technique, my personal vision is what I want to become. The vision tells me how I should behave and how I will accomplish my mission. Together, mission and vision statements remind me of why I even exist, my purpose, and how I intend to accomplish that purpose. With that said, in conclusion, please find below my mission and vision answering "Why am I here?."

Mission - Be a man of God
Vision - Lead like Christ, Walk with Christ, Love my wife and children in a way that they understand