The Gifts You've Been Given

Many of us will spend more money in the next few weeks than we have all year long (save the vacation to Cancun, the 21st, 25th, 30th, or 50th birthday party, the new home, or car). We will spend in the name of gifts. We will buy gifts for parents, siblings, significant others, bosses (horrible or not), our besties, our boos,  mail carriers, and our dog walkers. We will give and give and give.And...I think gift giving us great. But, it makes me wonder, what are you doing with the gifts you have been given?

Now, I'm not talking about the Diesel watch, the iphone5, the cashmere sweater, the Juicey Couture wallet, CoCo Chanel bag, the 46 inch flat screen, or the crisp Benjamins in the card from Aunt Hazel. I'm talking about the gifts you have been given such as leadership, organization, photography, entrepreneurship, make up artistry, writing, designing, baking, cooking, storytelling, networking, acting, etc.- all of those gifts that won't be wrapped under any tree or exchanged at any party.

What are you doing with what you have been given to do ever since you came on the scene of life?

While Christmas is close, the new year is just as close, and I am wondering what exactly do you plan to do with all of your talents and abilities?  What job will you quit in order to start the one that allows you to utilize your supervisory skills and passion for youth? Whose small business development class will you sign up for entrepreneur? How many people will you organize for an MLK day of service project leader? What mural will you paint for MLK day artist? Whose stage will you take and remind couples why they fell in love on Valentine's day? How much extra money will you save in your newly opened ING account for your own make up studio? dance studio? pastry shop and cafe?

As I wrap up 2012 and look forward to 2013 I keep in mind that which I know I am gifted to be and do. I have been seeking opportunities to do those things which incorporate my gifts and disengaging from those things which don't. My hope is that in the coming days you will take a moment to do the same. As you have been so graciously gifted with your various and unique talents, skills, and abilities, may you go and use them well, wisely, and with others. 

"We are each gifted in a unique and important way. It is our privilege and our adventure to discover our own special light."- Mary Dunbar

Happy Tuesday! xxoo