Summer is always a challenging time for me – a struggle between “relaxation and rejuvenation” and diving head first into the deep waters of the “project list.” Â And I have a very long project list.
Some of the people who know me think I have a list just to stay busy, to have something to do during my down time. Â I look at these tasks as something more, something bigger than just “staying busy.” Â My faith teaches me that you only get out of life what you put into it. Â It’s a principle found in natural science as well as the letter to the Galatians in the Bible – “You reap what you sow.” Â Or, in the more modern translation of THE MESSAGE, “What a person plants, he will harvest.” Â That tells me that, whatever I do with my life, however I spend my time, will have a long-lasting impact.
I’m a strong believer in the “pebble theory.” Â Each of us is writing a story with our lives. Â We are pebbles on the bank of the waters of human history. And when we toss ourselves – by our decisions and actions – into the waters, the ripples concentrically impact our reality…and the reality of others.
The Apostle Paul wrote this to the Galatians:
“Live creatively, friends. Â Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Â Don’t be impressed with yourself. Â Don’t compare yourself with others. Â Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.”
In the insanity of the business of entertainment, it is easy to get caught up in whatever success one might achieve. Â The bigger picture – at least for me – means using my talents in a positive way that will impact the lives of those who come into contact with “my ripples.” Â It means being more than a performer or entertainer. Â It means being a contributing member of humanity, living creatively, and exploring fully the possibilities that are often hidden under the surface (and sometimes much deeper).
So, my “project list” is much more than something to keep me busy. Â It is one of my attempts to live life to its fullest…and, hopefully, positively impact the lives of others along the way.