Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?

Culture, economic circumstances, family traditions, local customs and more can often influence us more than we realize.  With the benefit of hindsight, we asked some wise and experienced members of our community whether they think they are doing what they were meant to do or told to do.

Ashton Eller

I’m definitely doing what I was born to do. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to entertainment—whether it was writing books, creating cartoon characters, inventing superheroes, acting, or writing songs. As a kid, I’d make up stories, sing songs to myself, and even pretend I was in my own music videos. Read more>>

Chris Ewing

When I was in my early 20s, I was certainly just doing what I was told to do. I was following a path that was clearly laid out for me by others. Fast-forward nearly a decade, featuring many huge & hard shifts in my life, personal beliefs, & community, I have really done a 180 on my life path. Read more>>

Jordan Huffman

I believe public service is my calling. It is more than a job or a title; it is a deep sense of responsibility to use whatever skills, access, or influence I have to make life better for others. I am especially driven to advocate for those who often feel unseen or underserved. Read more>>

Jane Kumrija

I’ve been doing what I was meant to do for years now, choosing to follow my creative gifts and passions over the pursuit of material wealth or luxury. A family member once told me these talents are given to us to explore and use, not to keep hidden away and that deeply resonated with me. Read more>>