Hey Sweet Lifers! ‘Tis the season to cultivate and learn. I smell the inside of books and spilling ink as we roll into September and see another bunch of wildly intelligent younglings begin another semester of discovery. It’s one of my favorite times each year, because it is so full of possibility!
This fall there will be two full time students in my house exploring in the sea of subjects just waiting to be absorbed. My son has a hankering to learn about economics and business, and I, of course, am rounding out my Masters’ program as September makes my one year anniversary in seminary. It has been a year of learning so much!
In going back to the university, I had forgotten how much I loved it—loved the reading, the opportunity to discover new things – and then there’s my most favorite of all – the writing! (No surprise to you Sweet Lifers who have been reading my writing for so long.) James has gotten a taste of what the experience is like as he has watched me as a student for the first time, and I think the idea to study something, anything really, has rubbed off on him. I am excited to have us both up to our eyeballs in books.
I have well-documented my thoughts regarding many things in countless columns over the years, and one of individuals I have always admired is Leonardo da Vinci. The ability to pack into one’s life so many different subjects and interests is, well, very sweet indeed. And y’all know that I have been mentoring young folks taking their first steps out of the nest to think about what they want to be when they grow up. Truthfully, I have encouraged them to make a list of stuff they love to do. Back in my days of stepping out, Daddy wanted either two things to happen. I was to go get a law degree, and kick some butt, or marry well and be the best stay-at-home mommy that a stay-at-home mommy could be. These days, though, I am guiding the younger ones with an experienced background in grit, perseverance and solid communication with God. These gifts He has given us are a clear path as to the directions we are to go.
Gifts are given to each person and for so many, not just one! That’s why I think it is sometimes difficult to decide what to do with oneself. I am sure Leonardo felt that way, and that is why he did so many things tapping into art, architecture, engineering and more. So, when James asked about French culinary cooking, and a few days later started up a conversation on Thomas Aquinas, and then expressed how cool it would be to serve others as a physician, I just encouraged him to try it all! I told him, as I am an example for any of you who might be tinkering with their calling, gifts have seasons.
I have been many things and will become many more in this life. What matters the most is that we all find, cultivate and use our gifts to create our unique calling, and through that, we touch people’s lives. I assure you, God handles the rest!
Take care of you and stay “sweet!”
Alisa
