Becoming like my mother

When I was younger, I was very shy and quiet. I'm most definitely an introvert, but it was very obvious then. I preferred reading or dreaming or playing piano to playdates. I was my own best companion. So it astounded me to no end to see my mother hugging complete strangers and greeting people as if they were family. When I was a little older (probably a teenager), I would cringe when my mom would strike up a conversation with someone at a store, or chat with someone on the street. I would have preferred to blend into the background. As I grew older, and became a little less reserved, I began to think that my destiny was complete - I was going to turn into my mother whether I wanted to or not - it was inevitable. At that time, I didn't like the idea. It scared me to be that far out of my comfort zone (looking back now - I didn't know why at the time).

Today, I still struggle with my own reservations and fears. I get caught up in myself and forget to see others as Jesus does. Tonight, I greeted people I didn't know, and didn't worry about myself. I focused on them, and I tried to be welcoming and courteous, as any Christian should. And when I got home afterwards, I realized that it was a lot easier to open myself to strangers when I did it for God instead of worrying about my comfort zone or my feelings. That's when I also realized that if I truly believe in God's love, and I live accordingly, it makes everything else fall into place - introverted nature and all.

Wearing hats

I like to wear hats. I enjoy the additional accessory, the uniqueness, and it's one of my 'things'. My fellow Rotarians know me best as wearing a hat. Just this past weekend, I received the 'un-official' title of "lady in the hat"! But it got me to thinking about a few things.

First - I was touched that others notice my hats. I guess it could be my introverted way of saying 'I'm here - notice me'. Second - I tend to wear hats when at Rotary functions so that I am easily recognizable.

Simple observations, but I think there's more I can learn. Who around me wears 'hats' that I fail to notice? Which 'hats' do I applaud and why? Which 'hats' do I ignore, and why? By wearing hats consistently, am I expressing myself or living up to another's expectations of me?

I've tried to become more conscious of blessings in my life, and I've made a specific effort to appreciate the people in my life. And, since I know how I feel when someone notices my 'hats', why can't I do that for others? The hats could be talents, a kindness, a smile, or anything. If I would just make the time to recognize those around me and their own 'hats', I could pass it on. Sometimes it's hard to see, and sometimes I don't want to see.

I will try harder to be aware of the many 'hats' around me. They can be much more than just the item I place on my head. They can remind me of each person's unique gifts and talents. Hopefully I can be more open to this knowledge.