It’s been said that the purpose of life is to live a life of purpose.

Often I think of “purpose” as being similar to “serving” — serving friends, family and even strangers. In this case, I think it’s important to realize that service can be directed toward oneself, as well.

Service doesn’t always require helping the masses, although doing so is admirable.

It doesn’t always entail leading the multitudes, although if someone does, this can also be a noble endeavor.

It doesn’t always point to someone who’s inspiring others, although we certainly do need those people around us.

If there’s someplace we’ve always wanted to travel, do we not owe it to ourselves to check it off our list? If there’s something we’ve always wanted to do, shouldn’t we be able to say that we actually did it? If there’s something we want to become, shouldn’t we do everything in our power to achieve it?

Tonight I am thankful for knowing that a life of purpose can mean focusing inward just as much as others focus on those around them. I am thankful to know that a life spent continually improving, evolving and bettering ourselves in order to offer more to the world can be just as valuable as lives where dreams are shelved in order to help others attain theirs.