If you are talented at something, are you obligated to do it?
We live in a society where personal gain is the epitome of success. Where everyone is doing something to stand out and become that person that everyone looks up to because of what they have done. It drives a sense of competition and jealousy into the underlying threads of our daily lives and actions.
We often get caught up in the grind to get somewhere; we are focused on how we compare to others. This comes with a constant envy for those that have it easier or can do it better than ourselves.
In my experience, I have often been on the receiving side of that jealousy and envy. I am multi-talented, being an elite athlete as well as highly intelligent and self motivated. However my passions and focus change both quickly and over the long haul.
When my father passed away when I was 15, it gave me a new perspective on what I considered important in life. I lost the value of personified success and cared more deeply about the experience of life and personal growth for the sake of being a better servant to the needs around me.
With that change in perspective came the realization of the envy of those around me. My skill in volleyball became a gossip topic for others as it wasn’t my passion to pursue at a professional level. Even as I drive now to receive the rookie of the year for the college league I play in, I didn’t play for this award or the accolades. I wanted to play for the enjoyment and the comradery that the sport brings.
And for other people that isn’t enough. It is a waste of talent not to pursue my potential. That simply because I can, means I should. And I wonder how much of that comes from the insecurity other people face because of the competitive society we live in.
So tell me, does having talent mean you are obligated to use it?
Toby Breckenridge 