Michael Hyatt had an interesting story on his blog today that got me thinking. He said, God has given each of us a great gift in life. What will we do with it? (Read Michael’s post, It Is As You Choose It To Be.)
I’ve been pondering something similar for years. I strongly believe that God gives each of us abilities that are intended for specific purposes. And I find that exciting. I love to meet people and find out what they care about, what they like to do, what they dream of accomplishing someday.
So how about you? What do you want to be when you grow up? What place do you feel called to visit? What are you really good at? What’s your dream?
Hi Jill,
I love talking about this and I’m always asking people the same. About six years ago I was reading the parable of the talents and servants. I asked God, what is it that you’ve given me?” The word, writing, popped into my head and ever since I’ve taken steps in that direction. It seemed at one time in my life that I had no talents, but as soon as I started being thankful for what I did have and utilizing what God had given me, I’ve seen other talents “blossom” just like in the parable. We can be so blind sometimes about ourselves. So to answer your question, my dream is to be a published author. I want to move people with my writing, to take them on an adventure and taste the vibrancy of life. Just recently my eyes were open to my creative passion and some kind of artistic talent. I have yet to really determine the what, where, how, etc, but anything to do with arts and crafts. I get a rush just walking into a fabric store or craft store…talk about weird. 🙂 We shall see how that all develops.
You didn’t mention about yourself, what about you?
Ooh! I feel that way about fabric stores too, Jeannette! LOL
I’m living my dream! It was also to be a published writer. And that I might reach people through a story. But my first dream was to be a fashion designer. And I chased it all the way to school in Manhattan and two jobs in Los Angeles. But God showed me that he had something that was a better fit for me. The cool think about all that is that everything happens in God’s perfect timing. If I had known that I was meant to write books, I would never have chased my fashion dreams and my life would be different. Isn’t that interesting? We’re all on a journey.
Oh dear! If you get me started on this subject I may never stop. 🙂 But, to put it in short form, I would like to be a musician. And I have a lot of encouraging people around me that are helping me towards that goal. I actually want to get my doctors degree in music and go to one of those really amazing universities, but I don’t have enough money currently.
For a side job I want to write. No doubt about it. Writing and music are the two most amazing things. I want to see people aside from friends and teachers enjoy my work. So far none of my writing has been worth anything, but if God wills it, then I know it’ll come to be. So far the closest thing to publication has been magazines. Though actually, I submitted a short story into a collection of stories a guy was gathering, and together they’re all going to be published! After lots and lots of editing, I have some hope for the novel I’m currently writing.
Maddy,
Those are wonderful dreams! And don’t worry about the money. If it’s God’s will, he will provide a way. And with both, practice, practice, practice and you will prove your worth. Congrats on your articles and your short story. I remember my first published article. I still have the magazine in a drawer. I was very proud. 🙂
I’m starting to think that artistic people are good at one or many other artistic things. I find that many creative types like to create in more than one genre. Do you find that to be true?
Jill
Hmm… what exactly do you mean by that? Do you mean that people who are talented in one artistic thing (music, writing, photography, etc) are talented in multiple areas? Because I know an amazing musician who also has a gift for writing. And I know a girl into photography that studies music. Two, actually. And I’m sure YOU have talent in other areas than writing. 🙂
Or do you mean that people who are able to write fantasy can also write other genres, like sci-fi or medieval. Because I know a few people who can do that.
Maddy
Maddy, I think I worded my comment strangely. Oops. Sorry if I confused you.
I meant that artistic people seem to be talented in multiple areas, like your musician/writer friend. And the photographer/musician. And I write books, and I also play the guitar and sew and scrapbook.
But I can’t do math. Ha ha!
I think all writers could write other genres if they wanted to. But I think that writers tend to write what they like best. Fiction writer’s, anyway… What are your favorite genres?
You play guitar?! That is sooo awesome!
Hmm … I enjoy math, but I have a concentration problem. Everything distracts me!!
I like fantasy, but it’s not my strongest subject in writing. I write “modern-day” best, mainly because I relate to it. Stories like this one, http://booknook4you.blogspot.com/2011/11/fable-weaver-by-carlie-gernhart.html, is something I do okay with because I have a fairly crazy imagination. 😛 Judging by your books, I can kind of tell what you like to write.
Do you ever have trouble finishing your novel?
I “play” guitar. It’s more like campfire guitar, which works good for youth ministry and worship songs. I’m no rock star, though. 🙂
Ooh, that book looks cool. It also looks like it’s a contemporary fantasy. So next time someone asks what genre you write, you can say, “Contemporary fantasy.”
I like any kind of “weird” story. My new book is technically science fiction. I’d like to write some more fantasy though…
Yes! I had to force myself to keep going with book two. Book three wasn’t so bad, but book two was difficult. So much traveling in Darkness! So many cities/towns to visit! Gah! But I think it turned out okay. 🙂
I love that there is so much diversity in God’s world. All of us are given unique talents, and I am always awed and humbled by the fact that God, (the infinite, all-powerful God), entrusts mere humanity with so many gifts. I think of the play by Peter Shaffer, Amadeus, in which one of the characters tells how God hears the world as a vast symphony; each part individual yet altogether making a marvelous music for the Great Composer.
I loved the comment by Ms. Jeannette. The parable of the talents always fills me with the inspiration to express my thanks for God’s provision through using the talents He has bestowed. I’m sure He is angered and grieved when we don’t put His gifts to use. I love telling stories, writing, and singing. We all have to be willing to step out and use the marvelous gifts God has given us. Thanks for posting this.
That’s beautiful, Meredith, what you quoted in Amadeus. I may have to watch that movie again just to hear it. 🙂
Random thought: I once heard one of the Point of Grace singers describe brokenness in human lives. That each of us feel like we are broken and ugly and an utter mess, but from God’s view, he sees a beautiful mosaic of how all of our lives fit together.
Back on topic: Yes, the parable of the talents is both inspiring and cautionary. I feel sad when I see such talented people using their abilities in immoral ways. But it reminds me to remain thankful and humble as I serve, always praying that I am in the center of his will and not going off with my own agenda.
Your “loves” made me wonder what kinds of stories you tell? Is this something you do out loud? And what genre do you write? And where do you sing?
Jill
My dream is to write. I’d love to be a published author, and am trying to find a career based around writing that could support me. I’m also a musician, I play the piano and sing, and I’d like to do more with those.
Apart from that, I draw (not very well) and do a little craft (again, not very well). But I can do advanced maths.
Imogen!
Another multi-talented artist (must pronounce this: ar-tee-st). Welcome!
Pretty much any career will do, as long as you have some time to write. And at some point, a chance to take time off to go to a writer’s conference. Those will be where you’ll meet editors and agents who will help you get published. You can do it!
What genre do you write?
I’d like to become a novelist and win a Christy award when I grow up! Oh wait, you already did that? Way to steal my dream 😉
Awww… sorry about that Clay! But there are plenty of Christy Awards to go around. You might shoot for a non fiction award instead. Unless you plan to make the transition from “teacher” to “storyteller.” It’s not a big jump, really. I think you could pull it off.
🙂