Some people think that you have to be talented to be skilled. That may be partly true, but not necessarily. My little mama was skilled in a whole lot of things. She could crochet, quilt, decorate cakes, do art work and loved craftwork. She was taught how to crochet, quilt and sew from the women in her life. She taught herself how to decorate cakes and built a home based business that supplemented the family income. She took art classes when she was 75 years old and painted beautiful scenery on just about anything she could get her hands on! She could build things if she chose. My mama was spunky and determined; a seeker.
My husband is a skilled craftsman in woodworking and numerous other trades. He is professionally trained in barbering and is a Master at this skill. He worked with friends to learn meat cutting and how to smoke meats. There's hardly a question he can't answer in that field; he has mastered it. He also worked with professionals in carpentry to obtain the vast knowledge of woodworking that he knows. He made the remark at one time that he determined to acquire the knowledge and skill in anything he was interested in. He has done that. He can do electrical work, plumbing, even some basic mechanics. He's a seeker.
My sister is blind. Not from birth; this handicap developed in adulthood. Instead of sitting down and giving in to depression, she particularly excels in cooking! We all marvel at her tasty meals she can produce on a whim! Yes, it's partly a gift, but a lot grit and determination to carry on her passion for the culinary interest she's always loved. She is not afraid to try new recipes; she's a seeker.
I have another lady friend who seems extra talented in everything. But I also know she is a seeker. If she wants to learn how to do something, she will. She has her hand in community projects, as well as the needs of the church. She is retired from teaching but still her inspiration and dedication teaches and challenges. Almost everyone has been a reciprocate of some passed on blessing from this gifted and giving lady!
The Proverbs passage today says that people of skill will stand before kings. To be skilled is to have the ability to do a thing well. You can only do this by being a seeker; one who finds out. Whether you learn from experience or from training or from talent, I think all of us should seek to learn; to improve. Not for selfish purposes; but to be a contributor to your family and to society in general. We are not limited by age, social status or gender to being a seeker!
I admire parents that teach their children to learn everything they can through books and by awakening their minds to interesting and educational opportunities. I love to see middle aged people take on new challenges: job changes or productive hobbies. I am always inspired by the seniors who keep contributing to the world especially through volunteer efforts in helping others.
Obscurity means not clear or hidden. A skilled and talented person will not fade into obscurity. They will be recognized; not because that was their goal, but because the very nature of a seeker is unselfish; they give out what they acquire. There is no need to learn if you can't use your knowledge and skill.
Author Laura Spencer writes: "no matter how much you experienced, how many degrees you have or how well known you have become, there's always something to learn."
I've had some great examples in seeking and learning. My goal is to never think I'm through living! As long as I am alive, surely I have something to learn and something to contribute!
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