Casting about for something to illustrate this, like “a helping hand,” all I could find was a drawing I did in Nigeria in ’03 . . . a place where I hope I made a contribution.
Taking a break from the recent theme of my parents’ history, today’s thoughts have to do with you.
Specifically, your contribution. The fact that you have one, and that contributing it matters.
What is it that you do, that only you can do?
Think about it.
We live not just for ourselves. Even if our work is done in a solitary way, in the end it’s for a wider world.
What is it you would do even if no one paid you for it . . . if no one asked you do to it?
In many ways it’s why we were born. Seeing our unique set of gifts as contribution gives us reason for being.
Another thing: I learned a long time ago that the one who sees a need most clearly is almost always the one to address it. Not the nebulous “they.” They will never see it. They will never do it. Not right.
Further: Making our unique contribution brings the best out in us. We abandon ourselves to whatever it is and have done with debilitating self-consciousness.
We contribute to a higher cause . . . even if for only one person. Even if for only a child.
So, here’s my challenge for you. Identify your life contribution. If that’s too big, make it just for today.
State who you’re doing it for.
Then get on with it.
The world will be better. And so will you.
Our Lives Together
Its About Life
3:44 pm
OH MY GOSH HYATT! That is just so perfectly said and such perfect timing. When you work, you work for someone and you are subject to what they are saying about you. But truly in the end, if are being honest with yourself, you should ask yourself who are you using your talents for. Mine is for the Lord, so no matter what, I should always feel grateful and at peace. Thank you. Bless you and your family.
4:45 am
Thanks for asking the question. I thought about it. My contribution is «to love people». Those I come across every day, at work, in the neighborhood, while doing my errands. I try to recognize them, listen to them, empathize, encourage, pray. I do it for the Lord and His kingdom, but then, it’s just what seems the right thing to do, and I guess that is what you’re after. Greetings from Switzerland! Franziska
1:10 pm
So right and encouraging. Our gifts by God for God. I’ll feature this next week on WH.
9:20 pm
[…] So, here’s my challenge for you… (Read his challenge here.) […]
7:39 pm
Hyatt,
Right now I am doing some volunteer work for Hospice. It is so rewarding and I do think that we as volunteers get more out of it than the patients do. I always feel better after a time at Hospice.
Becky
9:57 am
THANK YOU!