What Do I Have to Give?

November.  It has become popular to take the thankful challenge on Facebook and post things one is grateful for in their lives.  Although I don’t participate, I think it is always a great idea to count one’s blessings.  Having said that, let’s see if I can verbalize my train of thought:

Josh and I were talking in the car today about other eras and centuries we had wished to be born into.  I pointed out to Josh that he was romanticizing the feudalistic era he had chosen.  He acknowledged this and then concluded he was thankful to be born when he had been, in today’s era.  As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we believe we were saved for the last day; meaning, our gifts and abilities strengthened us to be here at this time and place.  Essentially, nothing is coincidental; we have something to offer and contribute which is why we are here now.  This led me to think: what are my gifts and abilities and why was I meant to be here, now?

I think it is great that we are thankful for the blessings in our lives, but I know I often overlook and neglect to be thankful for the talents and gifts I possess.  Especially in this day and age we find it easy to belittle ourselves and those around us: that I want to challenge you to identify five things about yourself you are thankful for.  Try and identify the things that allow you to serve others that typically are written off as a personality trait such as a meek disposition, learning a musical instrument easily, being a people person, etc (sadly, I lack these qualities, but can easily identify them in my friends).  I know this is difficult (or at least it was for me) but here are my five things.

1.       I feel emotions off of people, which usually makes me aware of a person on need of a hug or a listening ear.

2.       I am a bit OCD when it comes to organization, which helps me run my home smoothly, freeing up time I can spend with my spouse and children.  This skill has also been useful as I contribute this skill in some of my callings at church.

3.       My skill with crafts allows my children a Montessori style of learning that they thrive on, as well as provides me with a couple of skills I can teach to those who are interested in learning.

4.       Thirst for knowledge is something I feel is infectious and the point of our ministry on Earth.  This edifies me as well as my children as I am able to pass on knowledge and passion to them.

5.       Perspective.   Although I am well aware my thoughts are nothing more than typical, I feel my experience and in some cases my attitude have helped me empathize with others who have/ or are struggling with something similar to what I have experienced, allowing me to possibly be a support they felt they lacked.