Gifts that Differ

The passion I have for writing and books is a gift, and it was prominent in me before I even knew how to read. I have always had words dancing around in my head, sometimes all day, forming stanzas in a poem yet to be written, or sentences racing through my mind as I experience something inspirational in the everyday. Before a pen gets to my hand, the words are set on repeat, like a new favorite song that you hum all day without realizing it. At times I can't write fast enough because the ideas and words just overflow. When I don't have the opportunity to write out my thoughts or musings, I feel like a page was ripped out of my journal. Writing is my memory. It contains my prayers. It is my outlet. My creative space.

Writing is a gift, that for many years, I never shared with anyone. I have journals full of stories, poems, and scribbles from middle school and high school that I never showed to anyone because I was embarrassed. Why was I hiding? I didn't think I had talent, and it's scary to share such personal thoughts with people. I didn't think anyone would be interested in it. I didn't see that what I love so much is a gift that is meant to be shared with others. It wasn't until 2007 when I decided to write and self-publish my first book, that I let people read my works. Most people didn't even know that I was so passionate about writing, and it resonated with them. Again, why was I hiding it? It has always been part of me. God made me this way for a purpose. That is, He wants me to share my gift. I am no bestselling author. If one person is encouraged and inspired by my writing, then I am being used properly. God can use to me to whatever capacity He wants. But nothing was possible until I was willing to share with people.

So what have you been hiding that is meant to be shared?
...So we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them... -Romans 12.5-6