Thank goodness women marry men. I think the two sexes balance each other nicely. From what I can tell, women everywhere have the (often unhealthy) tendency to compare themselves to everyone and everything around them. Men, and husbands in particular, are typically quite good at seeing us for who we are without regard to everyone we know. Matthew is especially good at seeing things as they are, an ability I often find myself lacking. Last night as we discussed my walk and desires for personal development, my good husband made a couple of observations which, when I step back and look at my life objectively, are quite obvious.
My first argument* was that I have no "visible" talents. You know that piece of paper they pass around at girls camp and everyone writes down what each girl is good at as an exercise in self esteem awareness? Mine always said things like "good listener". First of all, what is wrong with being a good listener? Really, it's an invaluable ability, especially considering how good Matthew is at talking. But, I continued, there's no way to showcase something like that. (Why my talents need to be showcased is beyond me, but that was my argument) Somewhat exacerbated he then called me Senorita Cloggalot, reminding me how I learned as a child, took classes in college, and now practise steps nearly everywhere I go. Okay, so I dance. Ward talent show here I come... moving on. We then talked through my daily routine to see if I'm really as inefficient as I assume. I said "see, I spend so much time cooking! Hours even!" and he said "see, you spend a lot of time cooking!". See how slow on the uptake I can be. I cook! I spend a lot of time preparing good meals, and I enjoy the art of it. I guess I didn't consider it a talent or a hobby because it's something that needs to be done anyway (that, and I only get to see the fruits of my labors for a moment since meals disappear minutes after being placed on the table. Why don't people eat slower!). Really I should be high fiveing someone and giving myself two points that I get to combine an enjoyable pastime with a daily chore.
So that is what I've found upon considering what makes me remarkable. I'm sure the more I look, the more I'll see. As another quick thought, I'd like also to note how grateful I am that I get to spend my days with Hyrum. I suppose sometimes I take it for granted that I have the opportunity to be home with my baby, and that I can care for him in every way. I love every little snuggle, every giggle, even every hair pull and dirty diaper. I have the best job ever and can't believe I ever considered my days unproductive.
* Why is it that we insist upon fighting against ourselves? I can have everything going for me (which I do) and still find a million reasons it "won't work" or I "can't do it". Am I really that self defeating?
1 comment:
Julianne, I remember being at BYU and I was the only one who didn't play sports, play an instrument, sing, or do some kind of art thing or dancy thing or even really speak a second language. I thought it was a talent just to feel comfortable in a place where everyone was good at ten things. I mean, I took Spanish for eight years, and can't speak at all (especially now). You are artsy, are a good cook, speak Spanish and know sign language. Plus you have exceptional knowledge of the scriptures and gospel principles. Come on! You almost make me want to throw up (while completely adoring you at the same time :)
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