I had a discussion with my book club about talents the other day that has really had me thinking. As a society we tend to emphasize showy talents, like those we’ve seen demonstrated during the Olympics, or famous musicians, or amazing artistic talent. And yes, those are talents worth celebrating. But I think that too often we tend to overlook what our own talents are. It can be simple to dismiss them as “nothing much” because to us they come easily and don’t feel like a big deal, compared to what we perceive as the wonderful talents of others (especially in areas where we feel we fall short). Sometimes it can be easier for those around us to see and recognize what our talents may be. Have you ever asked those close to you what strengths and talents they have observed in you?
I recently came across a quote from a talk that Ann N. Madsen (Truman G. Madsen’s wife) gave in May 2000. She asked, “Have you ever asked God to let you see yourself the way He sees you? Have you ever asked Him to show you which talents and gifts He gave you when you left His presence? He sees you as a Divine Child with unlimited potential and boundless talents, and He wants you to see yourself the same way and to use those talents to help others see themselves that way.”
Boundless talents. Wow. So what, then, would I say are some of the talents and gifts that Heavenly Father has given me? I know that I have some musical talent, as well as some academic gifts, both areas where I have received recognition or accolades in the past. But I think the talents that I am coming to appreciate more are ones like a talent to be able to make and maintain friendships over time, or to connect with people. I also think that it is a gift to be able to just like, and truly love, others. Because I really do. I even feel like lately I have been able to find my voice and a love of writing (not something I would have ever thought of myself as gifted with before writing these Meal Train posts, although reading back through those college letters there was no question that I was a prolific writer).
Even more important, how do I feel that I can use my talents to bless others? How can my meager offerings really make much of a difference, in light of so much need in the world? (Certainly my heart is heavy thinking of the suffering of others like those in Ukraine right now.) I think the most important step is a willingness to be used as an instrument in the Lord’s hands. It’s something I want to continue to cultivate, while acknowledging I still have a long way to go and a lot to learn (although I’m heartened by the idea of “unlimited potential”). But no question I have a strong desire, the drive, to work hard at improving and stretching and growing. Maybe that is also a divinely given gift?
