A few years ago, I was in a production at a local theatre. There was a young lady there who was so friendly, and I swear, she knew everyone’s name and entire life story before the end of the first rehearsal! Everyone loved talking with her and there were several kids in the cast who just adored her because she was so fun and friendly.
Now, I have never been what you might call a social butterfly. I was very shy as a kid and even though I can certainly socialize now, I am still more naturally comfortable sitting by myself in silence—especially if the socializing is with a room full of people I don’t know well. So, I usually sat by myself during rehearsals, watching the scene or studying my script.
At first, I loved watching this young lady interact with the rest of the cast. But then I began to think things like, “Wow, look at how much everyone loves being around her. She really brightens everyone she talks with. I am sitting here by myself while she is encouraging and lifting everyone around her. Why don’t I do that? I should be more like her. I am too quiet. I need to be more friendly and outgoing.”
The more I watched her the worse I felt about myself.
Then, one day, I was talking with my mom and mentioned this girl and the feelings of failure I had when I compared myself to her.
My mom lovingly reminded me that I have other talents and encouraged me to let go of my own feelings of inadequacy. Then she said something I will never forget, “Allow this girl the chance to shine.”
I was stunned! My intention had never been to hog the spotlight or be better than other people. But I realized that instead of being grateful for the talents of others, I often viewed their gifts as a painful reminder of the talents and abilities I did not have.
By divine design, we all have different combinations of talents and abilities. If we all had every single talent and ability, we wouldn’t need anyone else. We would be able to do everything for ourselves and no one would have the chance to serve or help others. We would not be needed because everyone else possessed all the same abilities and knowledge that we had. After all, a flashlight in a bright room isn’t really seen or useful, is it?
Thinking about it in that way completely transformed my experience with this young lady. I was able to stop comparing myself with her and was filled with appreciation and gratitude for her talents.
To this day, when I feel myself comparing my weaknesses to another’s strengths, I think back on this experience and ask myself, “Can I let go of my own insecurities and allow this person to shine?”
It is a powerful gift to give people the chance to be seen, needed, and appreciated.
Can we do that for one another?
Can we view other people’s talents without feeling like it’s a commentary on our own weaknesses? Can we see others succeed without feeling threatened? Can we give ourselves grace and know that we do not need to have all the talents and skills to be worthwhile and needed? In short, can we give one another the chance to shine?
Yes. Yes, we can!!
