Wonderful Surprises
By now you may have seen the video of Susan Boyle, the contestant on the TV show “Britain’s Got Talent.” This uncool, plain-looking, middle-aged Scottish woman sang “I Dreamed A Dream” from the musical Les Miserables and earned a standing ovation from the audience and the judges. Despite the fact that her appearance inspired rolling eyes and derision when she took her place on the stage, she evoked gasps and cheers when she broke into song and her voice soared. Millions of people have watched the video of her audition on YouTube, have watched it over and over again with tears in their eyes.
Why are we so surprised that such a sublime gift could reside in a plain package? Haven’t we learned by now that everyone has gifts and talents to share with the world? How often do we discount people thinking they have nothing to offer when, with the right opportunity and encouragement, they may blossom into a more fully-realized person. Ordinary people are capable of doing extraordinary things when given the opportunity.
Not all of us are blessed with a beautiful singing voice, but each of us has one or more gifts that the world around us desperately needs. Reach out to our community this week and share your gifts with the rest of us, and encourage and appreciate the gifts you recognize in the people around you. Remember, the most amazing gifts may come in the most unassuming of packages.