Were you born to shine in one special way? What makes you really stand out?

I have pondered these questions for years. I think it's something we all ponder. I mean, we're all different, and so we have qualities that make us stand out from one another, but what is the main one?

For some people, this question is simple to answer. Their talents may be easy to display. They could have a talent for singing, dancing, or playing a musical instrument. Others could be less obvious. A good listener, compassionate, peacemaker, or a talent for giving service. All of these talents are special and individually bless the lives of others. And multiple talents are given to multiple people. I imagine a great pianist would have to feel emotions at a deeper level so they could pour their heart into their music, thus making them a very sensitive individual. This can make the question of 'what makes you really stand out?' have multiple answers.

Being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has shaped my life for the better in countless ways. With the knowledge of the gospel, I have discovered that each one of us are choice and cherished children of a loving Heavenly Father, who wants us to succeed in life. As such, we all have a divine destiny, purpose, and reason we are born on the earth. It isn't an accident that we have been born now, during this dispensation, in the fullness of times, and as such, we have a sacred duty and responsibility to bring others to know Christ and Heavenly Father. This is a blanket purpose, but we each have individual strengths and talents, that if we develop, we will be blessed and given more talents. And with getting to know our Heavenly Father, our talents become more obvious, not only to us, but to those around us. It's like they're brought to the surface, with the help of the Lord. Maybe it's because we see each other through Christ-like eyes, seeing strengths instead of weaknesses. No matter the reason, we are all important and have a purpose.

If I were asked what makes me shine, the first thing that pops into my mind is my happy disposition. I feel like I have been born with a naturally happy and optimistic outlook on life. I see others as children of Heavenly Father, with divine worth. It is something that has helped me to reach out to those that have been shunned or forgotten, and bring them into a loving circle. I feel like we all need wholesome associations with friends and neighbors to strengthen ties and relationships.

I think my parents realized I had a special talent for making everyone feel loved from a young age, and they always encouraged me to be friends with people who were left out, and to be nice to everyone, no matter their circumstance. Those small life lessons, have taught me that we are all important, and even if it feels like the world has forgotten us, there will always be someone who remembers us, and loves us, even our Heavenly Father. I know this can be challenging at times, because living in the world feels like such a long way from heaven. But as we come closer to Christ and live worthy, we will feel a closeness to our Savior that fills every void in our hearts.

I use Christ and Heavenly Father alternately, because they are one in purpose. They both love us so much, and want us to return to them after this life is over.

In conclusion, to answer the questions today, I would have to say, I am the least intimidating person you'll ever meet, because I love to wear a smile, and that smile is genuine. Because I am happy. It's not just a facade. It's something that is real and tangible, and if I can make a person's life a little better each day, then my purpose in life is fulfilled.

May we all discover our own unique and special talents. Share them with the world. If we all did this, the world would be a better place to be.