Amateur

"Don't be concerned about not being an expert at this. Keep in mind that the Titanic was built by an expert and Noah's Ark by a rank amateur."
-Jerold Panas on the topic of fundraising.

I came across this quote while reading a book entitled "Asking". The book is solely based on how to become an effective fundraiser. Many may be wondering, why I am reading this book, but that is irrelevant to the reason the above quote struck me.

In my few short years as a responsible adult I have seldom chosen and often been forced to dig into the depths of my soul and deal with a little girl who is scared to death of failing or not living up to the expectations of others. At times it has been painful, pushed away, heart wrenching, funny, ridiculous, but always rewarding. I am learning that I do not have to be perfect to be wonderful. I am learning God uses imperfect people to do His perfect work in an imperfect world. I am learning that the expectations of another person seldom line with the expectations of God, so I shouldn't measure my worth on their assessment of me. I am learning my own thoughts and expectations of myself are far more critical than the thoughts and expectations other people have placed on me. I am learning that failure only exist if I let it. (By the way, who the heck is important enough to label anyone a failure). I am learning that I have to fill my cup up first or I am worth very little to the people God has placed in my life to love. I am learning that I love learning and exploring, because it has opened my heart to more grace, love, joy, and acceptance than I ever knew I needed or was capable of experiencing.

To all of you amateurs, I hope you kick butt today!!!!