Monday, March 9, 2009

Jack of all trades, master of none

Some of you probably hear me bring up past accomplishments, activities, etc. It has been so weird for me to lose some of my talents that set myself apart from others. Yes, I have always been good in a number of areas, music, sports, arts, decorating, etc. But now, I honestly can't say there is anything I am a master of. This is not to build me up in anyway, instead it is to motivate myself and see if any of you have found the balance in growing up and leaving some things behind. I need to decide what I want to cultivate in my life and continue to learn and grow in. Here are some talents that have changed in my life:

Piano- I started playing piano when I was 5. I took lessons until I was 12 and then accompianied choirs in my hometown. I was a great sightreader and people knew that I was a great pianist. Now, there are probably 10 people who even know I play/ed the piano. I sit down and play every once in a while and become greatly discouraged because I am back to the same place I was when I was 8 or 9. One of my goals is to take improv piano lessons and to reteach myself piano theory. I have said I will do this when I graduate from college. Is this something I should cultivate?

Running- I also started running in elementary school. I was the girl that the boys hated getting beat by in the mile run in PE. I had great success, school record holder, state competitor, ran in college, etc. Now I am just a morning running, which I do love, but I know I could do better. I could run races, I could improve and be more fit. Is this something I should cultivate?

Athletisism- I used to be able to jump into any game and be a contributing member of the team. Now, I find myself making silly noises when I miss the ball or have to move quickly. The competitiveness has left me. Besides running, I have digressed in my ability to be athletic. Is this something I should cultivate?

There are more, but I want to hear from some of you. Where is the balance? I don't know what to be okay with and what to push myself in. I don't know if this makes sense to anyone, please let me know what you think. Keep in mind my last post was all about slowing down...irony???

2 comments:

Ashley said...

Macey, I have gotten to know you the past few years and seen you excel in your talents that you have not diligently cultivated. First, you are not alone in this struggle of finding a balance in the things in life. There is also a season for everything. My encouragement to you is to pursue your passions. Discover why you like the things you did... and if those reasons are still as strong as ever..then pursue those habits or skills. If it not longer applies.. at times it can be humbling not having everything one used to have, but remember that God has provided other areas and passions in their place. I can give you my opinions about each of those areas.. but you will be happier if you discover your answers for yourself.. because they will truly be your own. :) Love you girl and am so proud of the woman you are in Christ! God bless, ~Puga

KT Barnes said...

This is so interesting Mace, mostly because this whole notion of losing that Master touch in some things happens to EVERYONE. You don't do yourself enough justice because you rocked at basketball, singing, encouraging, leadership and so much more. You're in a season of your life where you're a master at being a great wife, being a cheerleader for your friends, decorating your home and working hard. The scope of those things you master have changed to being really intangible rather than clear-cut things like playing piano and running. You are great at a number of character-driven talents, gifts of the heart. Be encouraged that you are still the best at being Macey Crow.

Thinking of you friend.

KT