My Version of the Parable of the Talents
There are several versions of the Parable of the Talents (a form of money back in ancient times). But the one that strikes home for me is the one where the master left on a trip, giving three of his employees some of his talents. One wasted the talents on self indulgent behavior. The second safely buried the talents he was given. The third invested the talents and grew them.
When the master returned, he was pissed off at the first two and rewarded the third.
Plainly, we’ve all been given unique talents. Waste them on self-indulgent anger/sadness/hurt/depression? Bury them like forgotten dreams, a spiritual fingerprint unlived? Or invest in our unique talents/gifts and make a positive difference in the world?
I’ve done all three. Wasted my talents, played small, went for the short term gratification – lost respect for myself, which is the only way I could continue to act as if my life didn’t matter.
Buried my talents, submerged my spiritual fingerprint in order to be there for others who were more important, or more needy – losing myself in the process.
Invested my talents, followed my heart, got my Master’s degree, took courses (More To Life, in specific), set goals and disciplines for myself – knowing that I’m in the right place at the right time, doing the right thing for me. The reward – deep satisfaction, gratitude and awe – wondering how did I get so lucky!! (Basically I stopped doing the other two things, and had someone believe in me, until I could believe in myself.) Thank you, Dr. Bradford Brown!
thank you, Ann.
your bolt of truth this time hit me with the description of your burying talents for the sake of others. that hit me in the guts: I have been doing a lot of that in my life. thank you, i will take breathe and stand true to my heart to the next level.
Amen Brother.
Now is your time, Andrew!
You’re the one who’s been doing the internal work that has delivered you to where you are! Keep investing in your talents, the world awaits!
Well stated my friend! Thank you for modeling and sharing your truths with us!
This past week beginning my job with Action Coach, I have been reflecting with much gratitude for my investments in the MTL organization!!
The owner ‘s name of this business coaching company Is Brad and he’s from Australia! My boss(who is amazing) speaks very highly of him and the systems and culture! So so much in alignment with what Brad and Roy created! I’m absolutely thrilled with what I am learning and honored that the invested in me!
Thank you Ann,
My mind says I do far to much of the first two and not enough of the last one. Not true, but it certainly sets a direction!
My mind says the same thing yours does. And sometimes it’s right! That’s when the lifeshocks kick in! LOL