Different Kind of Talent

When I get bored I like to surf blogs. I go to blogs on my sisters' and friends' blogs and look at blogs of people I know and people I don't know. I can't even begin to describe all the posts I've read this week that show all these projects that women around my age are working on. I see all these beautiful scrap book pages, redecorated rooms, photography, sewing, you name it. And I have to admit, I don't feel talented or crafty at all compared to them. I'm sure this will remind my sisters of many years ago when I said no one would ever marry me because I wasn't crafty. Well, honestly, I'm not. I try to be, but I just can't live up to the 'creative' standards I have for myself. I'm on the Enrichment committee for my ward and I came up with the idea of having a scrap booking activity once a month . We've had two nights so far and both nights I've just sat staring at my scrap book with all my papers, stickers, pictures, ribbons, etc., sitting in front of me and not knowing where to start and wanting to make scrap book pages like my sisters do. I have a new apartment that is in desperate need of pictures, pillows, decorations, and little touches that will turn it into the home I envision, but I have no idea where to start or how to go about figuring out what will look good. I haven't knitted anything in months because I don't have a project and I've realized I won't finish something unless I'm making it for someone else or I have some reason to knit. I know that this doesn't mean I'm not worth anything or that I don't have other talents or creativity in other areas. I just so desperately want to make beautiful things and be able to create things that others can enjoy, and I feel overwhelmed by talents that my sisters and friends have. This isn't a 'pity me' post, just a realization that maybe I need to focus on the talents I do have rather than focusing on the talents I don't.

Comments

Holly said…
You're crazy! Your scrapbook pages are awesome, and don't say it's because your sisters helped! I'm sure they copied their ideas from someone else, passed them on to you, I'll copy them from you, and so the cycle goes! =)

Anyway, I don't mean you're crazy. You have lots of other incredible talents that the rest of us envy! (Like your singing voice, your super organization and efficiency, your gift with kids!)
I know organization and efficiency are weird talents to list but it's something I really lack and look up to you for having.

I take comfort in the fact that everyone has the time and abilities to do certain things at different times. When you're not working full time you'll have more time to devote to the creative things you value. But for now you can just sock cute ideas away for the future!
Trisha said…
I feel like this too sometimes. Sometimes I wish that I was more into the girly craft stuff, but I just don't have it in me. The two of us will have to be admired for something else I guess!
Erin said…
I agree with you about focusing on the talents we have rather than envying the talents others have. I need to work on this as well. A lot of times I feel similar to what you described. You are extremely talented in many areas (I won't list since that could get lengthy) so focus on those things and maybe pick one or two things you want to work on to get better at, not necessarily compared to anyone else, just improving from where you are at (at least this is something I should try doing more of).
Ines said…
I have a daughter that feels exactly the way you do. Just because she doesn't have any "visual" talents, she thinks she's worthless. But she has many talents, just like you, that are not as visual, but more private, spiritual, and maybe undiscovered. Have you read your patriarchal blessing lately? I bet that there are things listed that are your strengths. Focus on those! By the way, if everyone had the same talents, life would be boring.I think you're great!
Tobey said…
I have to second Trisha (wow I miss our talks!). Just so you know I always look at your blog and wish I could make mine as cute as yours always is. Plus you win the best fun pictures award! YOu and Jay make the cutest couple with your silly faces and fun adventures! I should post on my blog all my crafty flops! Hey maybe we should start THAT trend! I always try crafty things and then totally ruin them! I think you are better at crafty things then you give yourself credit for. AND just think about your ability to speak in public....SUCH a talent that people would die for! I miss you!
Ines said…
Did you hear Pres. Uchtdorf's talk in the RS conference tonight? I was so thinking of you! I think this talk will be a classic! What uplifting encouragement for women everywhere!
adrienne said…
I actually did think of you and this post during Pres. Uchtdorf's talk. I think women have a tendency to look at other women and compare themselves in a negative way. What a great reminder that we all have the ability to use our unique talents to create!
Shannan said…
I thought about you last night, also! And I agree with everything Ines and Adrienne said. You are amazing and talented and I am so glad you are my sister!