It's Solo Time

My brother David called me about a month ago saying he had found a picture; one he said could be used in my blog.  The picture is of the Iredell Drill Team around 1985.  This premier group of young ladies highlighted most every sporting event in our town.

Every right-aged girl in town was in the Iredell Dragon Drill Team.  I was a privileged member of this group. Anyone could be a part of the team, but certain skills were necessary to publicly perform.

I attended every practice.  I listened to the instructor and watched closely as she "step-ball-changed".   I also watched the girls beside me every chance I got; mimicking their moves the best I could.

There was a tryout for each routine.  Come tryout day I always marched and kicked nervously counting as I was taught; I carefully stepped the grapevine (the only move I seemed to have down).

The tryout procedure was- if you make three mistakes, you sit yourself out.  You don't perform at games and you don't go to competition. I always made three mistakes. I can remember performing a few times.  I suspect that I cheated on my mistake-counting those times.

I don't know if you were able to spot me in the picture above, but here's a hint.  I'm on the first row.

I'll give you an even better hint.

I'M THE ONLY ONE WHO HAS HER LEGS CROSSED THE WRONG WAY.

Underneath that gorgeous gold uniform complete with fringe and the proud smile was a girl with two left feet  Even if my uniform made me look like a dancer, as soon as the music started to play the gig was up.

Too bad I didn't learn from my dance days.  I still find myself wanting to do what others are doing; closely mimicking their image and steps instead of being exactly who God made me to be.

I know I'm not the only one.

Those who have straight hair want curly, those who have curly hair want straight, those who have brown hair want their hair to be red. I remember being delighted when recently, hair with the big bump at the back of head became "the way to do your hair".  I have naturally big hair.  But for others "Bump-its" were available; a plastic piece hidden underneath fluffed hair so that you looked like you had a glorious full- head of hair.

The way we look is only one way we try to conform.  I want to sing in the choir.  I want to be funny.  I wish I could draw or paint well. 

There's absolutely nothing wrong with me singing in choir or taking painting lessons UNLESS it interferes with what God has equipped and called me to do. You will often serve in ways that are hard; doing things you're not good at-in His strength. But also pay attention to how God has uniquely put you together.

 If God has gifted you with a voice, sing for him. If you're a gifted performer, put on your fringed gold vest and skirt- and dance to his glory. 

Treasure the gifts that God has chosen specifically for you; he's the ultimate gift-giver. If you're convinced that you have no gifts or talents to share, you're underestimating Almighty God.  Seek Him.  He'll show you that you're wonderfully made and cherished just as you are.

The Lord your God is with you,

He is mighty to save.

He will take great delight in you,

He will quiet you with His love,

He will rejoice over you with singing.

Zephaniah 3:17

 

 

Listen for him too.

He sings a tune that only you can dance to.

 

 

 

 

So what's your story?  Consider sharing even if just a chapter.  There's beauty and sometimes learning, laughter and healing in the sharing. That's what "A Thursday for Your Thoughts" is all about.  If you'd rather share a recipe or favorite family event, we'd love that too.  It's as simple as sending me an email (and a couple of pictures if your technologically savvy).

Come back tomorrow as Jane Crain gives us a peek into her life.

I'd love to hear from you kristiburden@gmail.com