Tarnished

One of the greatest moments of my life was my grandmother’s death. (Don’t freak out yet; stick with me) It was inspiring because she left nothing to chance. At Robin’s first meeting with her, she asked, “Now what do you want me to put your name on?” Yes, it was uncomfortable, but upon her passing, everything was in order. There was no arguing or stupid debates, because everything was settled.

She and my grandfather lived a fortunate life. Through the decades, they stewarded the family heirlooms with meticulous care, knowing their generational value. One of the heirlooms was different sets of silver. True silver is so gorgeous, unless it gets tarnished over time. Then it loses its luster, takes a while to clean, but can catch everyone’s attention once again.

That made me think, “What areas in my life have I allowed to become tarnished? Am I willing to put in the grit to see those areas restored to their original value?”

The most challenging areas to clean in silver are the detailed areas that are artistic, make it unique, and bring more value.

Truth is, it’s those areas that are most challenging in our lives, and they’re the areas that create the most value in us. They are the creative, unique,  artistic, and detailed areas that your critics will try to tarnish. Yet, your champions will come along, scrub with grit, and help the best of you shine again.

What are the areas you have left tarnished for too long?

The longer you let them sit ignored, the more challenging they are to restore. Give yourself the grace to start the restoration, so what seems tarnished to you right now will be shining heirlooms for generations to come.