By Tammy Toor
Passion – it’s a word I have been thinking a lot about lately. I heard it mentioned from athletes at the Sochi Olympics, I felt it from the winners of the Oscars as they delivered their acceptance speeches, and I saw it on the faces of the musicians at a concert I attended recently.
I’ve always admired people who have found their passion in life. Some people seem to be been born with it while others find it after trying and experiencing many things.
According to a definition I found, passion is a “strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement for something or about doing something.” I have to admit that I have sometimes envied those people who are passionate because I have never thought of myself as a person with a passion. I have come to realize, however, that I do have passion. The difference perhaps is that mine is not focused in a single area.
I have a multitude of passions, including health and fitness and singing among others, and each of these evokes a strong feeling of enthusiasm and excitement. Maybe you can relate. Maybe you’re like me and have many things that bring you life satisfaction and happiness, and it’s not just about that “one thing.” In any case, here are some ideas for adding to your list of passions:
Ask yourself some questions – What have you always wanted to try? What talents of others do you admire? Perhaps these questions will lead you to pursue an area of interest that will lead to a passion.
Be sociable – You may have a friend who is obsessed with photography or a family member who is a master chef. Spend time with the people whose abilities could help spark a new passion within you. Their enthusiasm might be contagious.
Take up a new hobby – When I was younger, my interests revolved around music and drama. Then, through some encouragement from friends and a keen interest to get healthy, I started to exercise. Being active has since become a big part of my life, and I rarely let a day go by when I don’t set aside some time to pursue my new-found “passion.”
One of our objectives at the City of Nanaimo is to provide our community with a variety of recreation experiences. These experiences could be the gateway to pursuing new interests.
If you’re looking for some ideas, pick up a copy of our new Spring and Summer Activity Guide.
We have hundreds of options to help you on your pathway to expanding your interests, experiences and perhaps even helping you find a new passion. I know I’m looking to expand my list of passions.
Maybe I’ll try a Spanish class.
For information on Parks, Recreation and Environment events and programs, please visit our website at www.nanaimo.ca or call us at 250-756-5200.
Tammy Toor is a communications and graphics specialist with the City of Nanaimo.