Just lately I’ve been paying attention (reading or listening) to individuals explaining how they started out on what they are now known for: actors, scientists, musicians, sports people, writers, engineers, chefs, historians, artists, even politicians. Many of them began on their life’s path when they were quite young, by taking up a chance opportunity, or being encouraged by someone – a parent, a friend, a teacher – who helped them develop some spark of interest or shared what they valued with the young person. 

There are as many different skills and occupations as there are individuals, really. 

“Absolutely everyone in the heavens and on earth has a different kind of goodness [usefulness]. One and the same kind of goodness can never exist in two people; it has to vary in order for each kind to remain in existence separately.” Secrets of Heaven 6706

“There is an infinite variety of good activites in heaven, and each individual is, so to speak, his or her own activity.” Heaven & Hell 41

“I will give to each one of you according to your works.” Revelation 2:24

“… We should take care of our soul not for its own sake, but for the sake of the services we then perform in both worlds. … Having something for a purpose means loving it above all else.” Secrets of Heaven 5949:2,3

Contentment seems to involve discovering what our own particular talents are and pursuing them, however modest or grand – finding our ruling love. For some, it’s clear from a very young age. For others, it may take years to discover.

And then, we need to actually USE those uncovered skills – make them visible in the world. Use it or lose it, as the saying goes. Sharing our particular talents and abilities not only gives us enjoyment, it gives others enjoyment too. A play or concert or film needs an audience, a book needs readers, medics need patients, a bike needs a rider, teachers need students, a good meal needs diners! The usefulness inherent in skills finds expression in the reception they receive, and in the benefit they give. 

“‘…The services we render come from a love of them within us from the Lord. … The more we perform useful services from a love of them, the more this love increases… But the more we keep these services to ourselves and do not communicate them, the more the bliss dies away. … What is useful service but love of the neighbor in act? And what holds the heavens together except this love?'” Conjugial Love 266:2,3 [Swedenborg is speaking in heaven to a prince and a high priest of a society there.]

I heard once that as long as you at least start to learn something in this world, you’ll be able to continue learning it in the next world. I hope that’s true!

Here’s a New Year resolution you might try. If you haven’t already figured it out, think about what you’re good at, what you enjoy. Search for your own abilities; practise them, develop them. Don’t be embarrassed to try using whatever skills you discover in yourself – you and others will benefit. It’s a blessing that will last your whole life, in this world and the next.