There's Room for Your Gifts

You really should read this book.

I know that my friend's statement is true, but I'm hesitant to do so.  You see, she's recommending a book about motherhood.

I'm writing a book about motherhood.  I've been a mother for almost seven years, and during those years I've nursed a constant desire to write about my experiences.  In fact, I did write about my experiences: in my journal, in long emails to friends, in Word documents that no one read other than me, and then finally, in this blog. 

The idea of writing a book seemed beyond me, though.  Books are written by other people -- smarter people, more talented people.  And the idea of writing a book on motherhood seemed like overkill.  The field is saturated.  What else needs to be said on the matter?  How could I possible add anything to the discussion?

It took me years to believe -- truly believe in my core -- that not only could I write a book, but also that I could write a book that adds value.  When other people, like my publishers, confirmed that belief with a book contract, it was icing on the cake.

Even so, the idea of reading yet another book about motherhood while I'm still in the throes of finishing my own was a nervewracking prospect.  What if this author has beaten me to the punch by saying everything that I'm saying?  What if her writing is markedly better than mine?

I read her book over the course of two workouts on the StairMaster.  It's good.  It really is.

But do you know what?  There's still room for mine.

There is room for our gifts.  Don't think that there isn't room.  Our generation faces more information -- more websites, more books, more blogs, more songs, more Pinterist ideas, more recipe concepts -- than history ever has seen, and they're at our fingertips daily.  It's easy to buckle under the copiousness of it all.  It's easy to wonder if you have anything to add.

You do.  So, write that story.  Create that recipe.  Market that business idea.  Take that picture.  Compose that song, that poem, that play, or that YouTube video idea that you think could go viral.  You have value to add.  Don't deprive the world of your contributions because you doubt their significance.

A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.  (Proverbs 18:16)

Don't you ever forget it.

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11 comments

  1. Thank you Robin.  I am working on starting my own bag/purse business.  Thanks for the encouragement!  

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  2. I absolutely can't wait to read your book. And if you ever do a book signing in Indianapolis I'll stalk you in person, instead of just on the internet. 

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  3. Rarely would a post about stalking make me smile, but you've gone ahead and made stalking sound like a nice thing.

    And thank you.

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  4. I really needed to hear/read this.  Thank you.  "Without vision, the people perish." Prov 29:18

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  5. Hi there! I just happened to find your blog, and I'm so glad I did.  I love your writing style!  Where are you from?  I'm from Rochester, aka, motherland of Wegmans... and I'm not even gonna lie, just thinking about going there on a Saturday gives me anxiety. But I have family who comes in from out of town and won't consider their trip complete without a field trip to the Pittsford store, lol.  I'm your newest follower, and I look forward to your future posts!

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  6. How exciting!! I would read that book! Your a good writer and momma. And your right there is always room. I have been told by some published authors and other successful people that is not necessarily the most talented that get far in life, but the ones that don't ever give up. Did you know "Gone with the Wind" was rejected like 333 times!!! Luckily you are a great writer and have a book deal!! Congrats!!

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  7. Thanks for this encouraging reminder! And I am SO glad you are writing your book - can't wait to read it!

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  8. Thanks, Jeni, and welcome!  I'm from PA, and our Wegmans just arrived in my area a few years back.  Never knew that it originated in Rochester!

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  9. Faith NelsonMarch 03, 2012

    Thank you, so very much, for this.  I think sometimes we all need to hear this.  

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