I admire people. A lot. Especially people who are kind. I notice kind eyes, a kind gesture, a kind word, or a kind touch. Kindness is what I admire most in others. It might even be the one trait that’s most important to me. Kindness is something I wish to cultivate more and more of as I age.
I have many mentors in my life. They help me grow and stay curious. I often think about imparted wisdom long after they’re shared. One particular mentor encouraged me to find my gift and to believe in my gift. I didn’t really know what she meant at the time. With this mentor’s help, I started believing everyone has at least one gift they are graced with. Some of these gifts fall into the intellectual realm, or the creative realm, or the interpersonal realm. And so on and so forth.
Why is it important to know your gift? Well, in order to express your self. Self-expression can be one of the most empowering things we take part in. When we find ourselves in a “flow,” I believe that’s when our mind, body, and spirit align – we are working from that deep, authentic part of ourselves – where fear, judgment, and criticalness recede. Self-expression is a way for our souls to shine. It’s where beauty, connection, and strength are born.
For me, writing is a way for my soul to express itself and connect with others, both of which are very important to me.
What makes you come alive? Is it a particular characteristic or an activity? Is it being around others? What’s that one thing about yourself or others you admire the most?
I encourage you to put your fears on the sidelines as you do some digging and peel back some layers. My wish for you is that you learn to believe in the value of your gift(s) and embrace that amazing quality that allows you to come alive and energize others.