Going with your strengths...

I have always referred to myself as "multi-talented". For one thing - it sounds MUCH more positive than "lazy-assed slug". I DO have talents - even if they don't include team sports or keeping house like Martha Stewart. My talents are harder to explain - at least to my mother!

I read, I write, I communicate, I speak. (Note that washing the windows didn't make that list) I actually love public speaking - I really enjoy that form of communication. To me, it's sharing my writing - verbally! I discovered public speaking in 6th grade (and won best in school for my version of "America's Promise"). My dad was a Methodist minister, so I also had the opportunity to be the guest lecturer at different Methodist churches before I was out of college. Later on I traveled around the country, talking about the different research projects I worked on as a PhD student. Once I was in private practice (audiology) I would travel to different groups and talk about hearing loss. I also became a certified toastmaster - just for the fun of it!

People had told me for years that I should follow in my father's footsteps and become a minister - but I had a few problems with that. For one - mainstream religion doesn't fit me well - I believe everyone must find their own path. I eventually became a Unitarian Universalist - and found a few more public speaking opportunities there! But - even in a UU church - I have no desire to be a minister. I've lived that life - and have no desire to repeat it. But parts of it appeal to me.

Last month by dear friend Theresa decided to re-marry. They were having a hard time finding a pastor that would design a ceremony to reflect their beliefs and journey. Theresa said she really wanted ME to design and perform the ceremony - so I did. I became a certified wedding officiant and quickly put together a simple wedding ceremony that included Theresa's children and the different backgrounds and beliefs of Theresa and her husband to be.

It was amazing. The ceremony took place in the courtyard of a small restaurant - with about 20 friends and family members. The ceremony was unique, touching, and memorable. One of my favorite parts was the exchanging of rings...

The wedding ring is a circle symbolizing the sun, and the earth, and the
universe. It is a symbol of wholeness, perfection and peace.

As you enter into the circle of your shared love,may you be blessed through
your devotion to this union. May your journey as husband and wife be filled
with peace, love and joy.

Then the ring vows were exchanged...

This ring is my gift to you.

May it always remind you
that from this day forward, you will be surrounded by my love.

It felt right, performing the wedding. I felt so blessed to be able to contribute my puny talents to their celebration. Let's face it - other friends took care of flowers, make-up, restaurant reservations and so on. Instead of being the usual "bump on a log" I was able to make the day incredibly special for them.

I read, I write, I speak, I communicate.

Not bad talents, really. I plan on using them MUCH more frequently.

Namaste.