Everyday Challenges
My husband and I have watched the movie, “Centennial” many times. It’s one of our favorites. It’s filled with historical clashes and challenges for the settlers and those who would work hard for progress as they moved across the country. It is interesting…and sobering how very different “progress” is defined by different people. Some fought for land and a new way of life, while others fought for gold.
Cattle were driven north and then sheep were introduced to the landscape. The railroad brought its own share of changes, followed by the automobile and further development. Some of the changes resonate positively with me, while others leave me sad and grateful I didn’t live in that time era. Yet, mostly the idea of “pioneering” seems like such an amazing adventure for those who would be willing to take the risk, albeit, even for everyday challenges!
My friend shared how her silverware drawer broke and considering that both her grandfathers were skilled carpenters, opted to tackle the job herself. With Dremel in hand she followed the directions twisting her body into the cabinet, drilling, screwing and working on the desired repairs. Project complete, she realized her original measurements were inaccurate leaving it less than optimal.
Even though she wasn’t totally successful, much like those courageous pioneers years ago, at least she tried! I’m certain I wouldn’t have! I am not mechanical! I’m grateful however, lacking as I am, others are enabled to take care of such issues! Yet, I can’t help but regret the lack of courage to try something challenging out of my comfort zone.
There is a purpose for each of us and mine seems to be putting words on paper. But does this mean I shouldn’t try something that frightens or intimidates me? I have one daughter who thinks nothing about sticking her head under the hood of a car and making a reasonably accurate diagnosis about an engine problem. All I can do is notice something is amiss. Another of my daughters is skilled in the medical field and another in business. I have a son skilled in computers and a remarkable artist and yet another son skilled in water management, maintenance! In each of the areas where my children excel, I lack horribly!
Still there is another kind of challenge many people face every single day which takes more strength than I can imagine. The parent who has a child with disabilities has a job 24/7 which he hadn’t always planned on. Sometimes when a little one is first born, there are surprises with the abilities or non-ability expectations. The parents of a little one with disabilities are incredibly courageous because they face everyday obstacles many of us can only imagine. These are very special, strong people.
For whatever reason, these parents were ‘chosen’ to care for a special needs child. It doesn’t mean there aren’t problems, and rarely are they professionals. Still they are the perfect ‘fit’ for their child, and often will tell you their little one provided them a view of life they’d never have witnessed had they not been gifted this child.
We each have gifts and abilities. Whether it’s being a doctor, mechanic, computer tech or a parent, especially of a special needs child, using all the gifts we’ve been given to do our very best, we can be productive and have joy and peace in a job well done. In so doing, we can live a good and happy life.
How do you use your talents and gifts?
Photo Credit: https://pixabay.com/images/search/challenge/