At one time or another, most of us have been asked to volunteer in a position that makes us feel uncomfortable.  Meanwhile, at the event, we glance around the room, and everyone else appears fueled and energetic. 

Whether hosting a social benefit, analyzing data, or handing out fliers, we simply have to admit that we cannot possibly be gifted to do our best in all situations.  Because we are aware of our personality traits, we try unsuccessfully to compensate for or build up our weaknesses. 

Imagine, instead, if we were to build up our strengths.    

Living Your Strengths takes the healthy approach of appreciating that not everyone can succeed in all areas.  The authors embrace individual strengths with enthusiasm and positivity.  This awareness is both empowering and self-changing.  In so recognizing our gifts, we optimally serve God and our fellow human beings.   

The book highlights thirty-four possible positive themes. 

For example, one of the many testimonies given relates how a young couple grew to understand their different strengths.  Both were invited to greet parishioners congregating for worship.  Liz loved to meet new people and was a natural, while Rick tended towards deeper relationships, and found this ministry was not a good match for him. 

In order for us to grow and be our best, it is vital to differentiate our “natural predispositions” separately from skills and knowledge that can be acquired and learned. 

As you gaze around the room at your next meeting, celebrate your individual giftedness in St. Paul’s words: “There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit...To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit” (1Cor 12:4-7).      

Book Review by Joanne Bennardo