How Purpose can Manifest in Different Ways

Please read the stories of two Law Enforcement Officers, Juan and Tammy. Their stories provide insights into how purpose can manifest in different ways, even within the same profession.

Juan’s Story: 

Officer Juan has been on the police force for 10 years. He has been divorced for 2x, He reports a number of physical issues. He has low back pain which drinking, nor medication have relieved. The effect of the pain is that he exercises less and complains of always being tired and not getting enough rest. Juan is looking forward to retiring but first wants to make sure his 3 kids have an opportunity to attend college. To this end, he often works overtime. The money is good. However, he wonders how long his body can continue. 

Tammy’s Story: 

Officer Tammy, in addition to the demanding duties as a Patrol Officer in her police department, teaches in the criminal justice department at her local community college. She loves sharing her knowledge and experience with students. She has introduced many students to Law Enforcement careers. If you would ask her, she would say along with her role as a patrol officer,  teaching is her purpose and mission. It’s her passion. Anyone who spends time with her notices a certain resilience. A vibrancy. Things at work don’t seem to get under her skin as much. She still has bad days. However, she would tell you she bounces back sooner. And, a big part of her resilience lay with her sense of purpose and mission: Teaching and interacting with students at the local community college. 

Which Officer is living with purpose?

The answer is, in fact, both Officers. Officer Juan is living with purpose as a police officer and as a father, striving to provide his children with opportunities. Officer Tammy finds her purpose in her dual roles as a patrol officer and an educator. Both demonstrate that purpose can take diverse forms and drive us in different but equally meaningful ways."

Reflecting on Juan and Tammy's stories shows us that purpose is not one-size-fits-all. It’s deeply personal and can be found in various aspects of our lives, whether in our professional roles, family responsibilities, or passions. As Law Enforcement Officers, understanding and connecting with your purpose can be a source of strength and resilience.