Tuesday, November 21, 2006

I am a Jack of All Trades

Last week I was introduced to someone as a "Jack of all Trades." When I heard those words something inside did not like being called that. The fact is, they are true words. I have been a paper boy, drugstore clerk, pizza maker, Dorm Resident Advisor, video store clerk, computer sales and networking technician, campus minister, waiter, bartender, restaurant manager, own my own video production company, screenwriter, and independent film maker. In every one of those jobs, even at the age of 11 or 12 when it started, I have succeeded in those jobs. I had opportunities to go further in everyone of those fields. I can do light carpentry work, fix most computer problems, and probably many other things.

So if these words are true, why did I hate hearing it so much.

Master of None. Those are the words that follow. I am good, but not great at anything. To me it almost says, will not succeed. Will not make it. Maybe it says "unfocused", or "lack of follow through". It is possible.

I was talking to a good friend and he said, what about Renaissance Man. It certainly sounds better than Jack of all Trades. And there is no following phrase of judgement. DaVinci, after all, was a jack of all trades. But something was still missing. Then the friend mentioned something that turned it completely around. "Jack of all Trades" is not who you are, it enables you to be who you are. You have the skills to be able to come along side others and help them reach their goals. Blessing is what you bring."

That was it. I am not defined by an occupation or a career. I am a person who desires to be a blessing to those around me. It doesn't always happen. But I think this is who I am. I am a Warrior of Blessing. If it is easier for you to say "Jack of All Trades", I 'm okay with that. I know who I really am.