Today we're going to talk about a topic that hits close to home: providing is not enough. I've seen this struggle in the men I've worked with over the years, and I've personally fallen into the same trap.
Let me take you back to my own experience. I met the love of my life, we built a relationship together, got engaged, and decided to get married. We were starting out, and income was a concern. We didn't have enough to create the life we wanted. In those early stages of marriage, we were focused on building a future together, which meant generating income. Relationships today come in different configurations. It could be the traditional setup where dad is the breadwinner and mom takes care of the kids or works part-time. Or it could be both parents pursuing careers or even a scenario where dad stays at home while mom is the breadwinner. The possibilities are endless.
You know, I've come to realize that being self-actualized means being truthful and accepting myself and others exactly as we are. I've learned that I can't convince or change anyone, as people will make their own choices and live with the consequences. It's a hard truth, but it's the reality. Of course, for my loved ones, I offer guidance, care, and share my beliefs to support them on their journey. But when it comes to the rest of the world, I've come to understand that everyone is on their own path, regardless of where they currently stand.
For me, I've always felt called to be a great father of humanity. This calling has been with me since before I was born, as my mother wrote me a letter shortly after my birth, recounting how God revealed that I would be a leader of mankind. Discovering this letter a couple of summers ago reaffirmed my purpose and strengthened my resolve.
Self-actualization is also about growth and self-discovery. It's about constantly striving for mastery and deeper experiences in relationships with our spouses, with God, and in serving others. It's not about anything external—it's about uncovering what we need to learn to create success, value, and impact as we actively shape the world.
"This is what marriage is all about - Man and woman walking together, wherein the husband helps his wife to become ever more a woman, and wherein the woman has the task of helping her husband to become ever more a man." - Pope Francis
Blessings on your path,
Rev. Benjamin Norman
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