At 5-foot-1, I’m the shortest in my family, extended family and circle of friends. It’s never really bothered me but it’s probably the one thing that everyone points out to me. Sure, I can’t reach a lot of things and I have to pull my seat almost to the steering wheel when I drive, but so what? My friends love to point out that my twin brother is 6-feet tall so he took all of the height. I just laugh it off because I love everything about me and the way God created me to be.
Isn’t it funny how people will constantly point out what’s unique about you? The decision if this affects you negatively is up to you. There’s something unique about all of us. Whether it’s as obvious as my being vertically challenged or something more personal that only those closest to you are aware of, your uniqueness is what makes you special so own it, celebrate it and make it work for you! Psalm 139:14 in the New Living Translation reads: I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
God has made all of us wonderful. Think about our brains. This powerful organ was wonderfully made to control our breathing, blood pressure and ability to think and reason all at the same time. God is an expert craftsman and you do not have to worry, he never makes a mistake with any of his designs. Knowing this, what makes us still question our uniqueness? As a minister and business coach, I’ve heard these questions time and time again. Why am I this size? Why aren’t my eyes shaped like other people? Why isn’t my hair like this or like that? My response is always the same: because God made you just the way you are supposed to be. I want you to stop comparing yourself to others. Comparison breeds discontentment. Consider this: comparison is costing you your comfort and making life much more difficult than God ever intended it to be for you.
It’s time to shift your focus. Limit your time on social media. Be intentional about your time on it and use of it. A lot of people have allowed the pictures they see and stories they read to convince them that people are living these amazing lives only to discover these stories are contrived and even false. And, a lot of the photos are enhanced, edited and computer generated. Spend time developing and growing your gifts and talents. Take a class. Join a book club. Become a mentor. Do something for someone else.
Perform a reality check by doing self-introspections. Identify if you are you in touch with what really matters in your life versus what society says should matter? You should care more about the impact you are having on the lives of others from your character versus your clothes. Remember, only what you do for Christ will last.
You are an amazingly beautiful and special gift. Now live your life like you know it.
