Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. ICorinthians 12:4-6, NRSV

All of us are born with gifts unique to us. The combination of who we are, where we live, and the community that surrounds us affects how our gifts are recognized and fostered – or whether they are recognized and fostered at all. It’s why mentors are so important: they see in others something precious, and they offer their time, patience, and wisdom to help it grow.

But recognizing and investing aren’t enough – a mentor has to do this without trying to determine or definitively define the purpose for which the gift was given. That is up to the Spirit. But it takes trust in God and others to do this.

A mentor can’t co-opt another’s gift or path for recognition or benefit – it’s time to foster the accomplishments of others rather than add more accomplishments to one’s own list. Generosity and maturity are required to do this.

Sometimes, it’s not about the ones whose gifts we see so readily. Sometimes, it’s about taking the time to look deeply at those whose gifts aren’t visible – whose value has been overlooked or questioned. The gifts are there, no doubt.

Are we willing and able to see them?