Finding Purpose in the Unexpected

Meant for More

Life often throws us curveballs. Sometimes, we find ourselves in situations that seem limiting or challenging, and it’s easy to feel like those struggles define us. But, as I’ve come to realize, even the hardest times can become a foundation for something greater. Today, I want to share a story about how one unexpected opportunity changed my direction and deepened my understanding of my purpose—all because I chose not to say “no.”

Years ago, I was looking for extra work to stay engaged while going through a difficult season in my life. The challenges of that time had me searching for something that would keep me occupied and, honestly, give me a reason to keep pushing forward. One day, a coworker mentioned that there was an opening for a high school bowling coach. I knew almost nothing about bowling. Coaching? I had experience there, especially with kids. But bowling was far outside my comfort zone. Still, something nudged me to apply, so I did—and I got the job.

Coaching bowling became more than just learning and teaching a sport; it became an unexpected avenue for purpose and connection. As I worked with the students, I found myself growing in ways I hadn’t anticipated. They were learning bowling techniques, sure, but I was also helping them build confidence, resilience, and teamwork. It was a two-way street of growth and encouragement, and I found myself deeply invested.

But the true gift of this journey came in an area I hadn’t expected: my relationship with my father. Like many men, I’ve noticed that we sometimes connect best through shared activities, especially sports. My father and my mother divorced when I was very young, so he wasn’t around for most of my childhood. During my teenage years, I was often angry and unapproachable, and we had no real relationship. Time passed, and as life unfolded—with my own family, children, even grandchildren—I found myself wanting to reconnect.

As I was navigating my own challenges—separation, then divorce—I began to see my father through a different lens. I realized that he, too, had faced struggles. And as a coach, I started to understand him better. Coaching gave us common ground to sit down and talk, and over time, we were able to share stories, experiences, and parts of ourselves we hadn’t revealed before. This simple act of connecting over sports and coaching opened up a deeper understanding between us, something I never thought was possible.

I’m sharing this story not just to reflect on my own journey, but to encourage someone out there who may feel stuck, lost, or unsure of their direction. Life has a way of putting us in places where we’re meant to be—even when we don’t see it at first. Often, we are meant for more than we realize, but it requires an open heart and a willingness to step into the unknown.

If I had turned down that opportunity to coach bowling simply because it was unfamiliar or because I felt unqualified, I would have missed out on these life-changing experiences. I wouldn’t have deepened my relationship with my father, and I wouldn’t have discovered this unexpected path that has enriched my life.

So, to anyone reading this: you are meant for so much more than the circumstances you started with. Whether you’re in a challenging season or facing something new, don’t hold back. Sometimes, the most unfamiliar paths lead to the greatest growth. Embrace the journey. Say “yes” to the opportunities in front of you, even if they seem small or out of place. You might be surprised by the purpose waiting on the other side.