"Every strength is also a weakness, a limitation, a dimension of identity that serves me and others well some circumstances but not all the time."
Palmer recognizes that with his strengths come weaknesses and that is really what can make a great teacher. It is so important in life that we recognize the positives that we can bring into people's lives and the negatives things that we can also bring. God has presented all of us with many gifts and strengths in our lives. It is so important that we recognize these gifts so that we can share them with the world. Our strengths are such a waste if we don't use them to the best of our abilities. What good is it if we don't use the strengths/gifts that God gave to us? God has also gave us our weaknesses which if we recognize them we can turn them into strengths. Life is a constant lesson in making ourselves better. As long as we are aware of our strengths and weaknesses and learn to use them to our advantage we will be successful. The activity that we did on Friday really helped me to recognize my strengths. I tend to be very demanding and critical of myself and it is always good to be able to hear what people think of you. Weather it be positive or negative it all can be used as a growing experience. Each day is a lesson and with that lesson we can choose to learn from it and bring new strengths to our lives or we can choose to ignore our daily lessons and make are weaknesses stronger.
Blessed be God!
ReplyDeleteDear Maureen,
You wrote, "I tend to be very demanding and critical of myself and it is always good to be able to hear what people think of you. Weather it be positive or negative it all can be used as a growing experience". You are right! When we are open to receive good and bad from others, we grow.
As Palmer said, "Looking at our failings is always hard, but it is easier when done against the backdrop of our strengths. It can even be fruitful..." because both help us understand who we really are.
Blessed be God for our strengths that help others in their lives and for our weaknesses that help us realize we need others in our lives.
God bless!
Another great post Maureen! I am still thinking about the line, "Life is a constant lesson in making ourselves better." What a beautiful way to sum up this chapter. We need to be able to reflect and see where our shortcomings are and celebrate our gifts.
ReplyDeleteMarueen,
ReplyDeleteWhat good is it if we don't use the strengths/gifts that God gave to us? Definetely true, and as the parable of the talents says God gave you those to use them and He will ask you what did you do with those?
I am sure your answer will be I was a TEACHER. I used them all ;)
Hi Maureen,
ReplyDeleteWe must always be thankful to the Lord for His wonderful gits to us. We are all full of unique GOD given qualities. We need to make use of them for the greater glory of God and the service of our brothers and sisters (students).Indeed, Friday activity was very much enriching for me.
Hi Maureen,
ReplyDeleteGod has certainly blessed you with many gifts so try not to doubt yourself and instead call on Him to help you see your special strengths. Also, as long as you are doing the best you can don't worry about other people's perceptions. I love the energy and dedication that new teachers bring to our vocation! It's contagious and motivating for us dinosaurs out there:) It was wonderful sharing with you on Friday. Again, there is such beauty in the way you honor your family with your words and love. Another wonderful gift you have...GRATITUDE!