We do plenty of this on our own in regards to our gifts—billow
and extinguish. Our calling, our gifts are like fire inside our souls. Some
people fan the gift while some stifle it and attempt to turn it to ash. Today
I’m going to address ways to identify those who billow and extinguish your
gifts in your life. Time is precious. It’s worth it to evaluate who does what
and how often.
Those Who
Extinguish:
Make Sarcastic or
Cutting Remarks
It’s obvious Uncle Larry doesn’t take you seriously when
every time you talk about the book you’re writing you get the eye roll and
“I’ll believe it when I see it.”
Ignore Your Gift
Altogether
Sister Sophia neglects to mention that project you’ve been
buried in for months. Who knows why, but it’s become the proverbial elephant in
the room. (Did you know that supposedly elephants like alcohol? Got this from Water for Elephants…too funny if it’s
true. Carry on.)
Turn It into a Joke
“Hey, did you hear this whirly bird has written herself a
little novel?” Aunt Patty smacks your arm and waits for the rest of the family
gathered at the holiday table to burst out in laughter as you bask in being the
butt of the joke instead of the life of the party.
Keep You Busy &
Distracted
“Oh, sure you can mail out five hundred letters for the
school fundraiser. It’s not like you’re working or anything.” PTO rock star
Mandy doesn’t get it, does she? This
group is most likely to do what they do unaware. They get the least likely to
own culpability stamp.
Those Who Billow:
Use Encouragement as a
Motivator
You hear it. You feel it. It nestles in your bones every
time Aunt Serena pulls you aside and whispers, “You’re going to make it. I read
your blog. I believe in you.”
Speak Truthfully, but
with Your Best Intentions in Mind
You shout out joyfully whenever you receive feedback from
Best friend Becky that’s chock full of wisdom and insight for you to keep on
keepin’ on.
Act Supportive & Positive
about Your Vision
“It takes a certain kind of tenacity to keep at it in your
line of work. Tenacity I’ve seen in few, but I see it in you.” A mom’s billow
still burrows deep.
Help You Focus &
Strive for Your Goals
“I’m open to hosting the holiday party this year. You’ve
told me you’re getting ready to face a tight deadline and I can’t wait to read
your work.” Brother Todd words ring bells and give angels wings.
Know who you’re hanging with this holiday season. Oh, and
when you click here be prepared to get billowed!
Can you think of any
more clues you’re talking to one who billows or extinguishes?
*I am in no way
implying in this post we are to hand the power over to others to dictate how we
handle our gifts. Only, it does influence the way we think about our gifts—who we
choose to spend time with.
**photo by stock.XCHNG
