When I was growing up on the farm, I wasn't always able to appreciate the gifts of time, talent, and treasure my parents graciously offered to their children.  Like most, I more often than not perceived that the greener grass was growing around the homes of my friends and classmates, instead of my own backyard.   Whether it is "maturity" or just the opportunity to now walk somewhat in their shoes, or a bit of both, my perspective of my parents instilling a talent of "workmanship" in the lives of their children has evolved over the years.  

A workmanship talent my mom shared was seen in the stylish garments she constructed for her daughters while we were in elementary school.  Today this talent has expanded to the weaving of fabric pieces into colorful quilt tops that she then hand quilts.  Her workmanship is also evident in the tatted doily creations, her day-to-day chores around the house and farm, the meals she prepared for her family, and the patience she modeled when helping her children learn the ABC's and numbers.  The intangible talents taught to each of us included the difference between right and wrong, taking pride in what we do, to do something right the first time, and to not be afraid to try.     And as I today reflect and value the workmanship my mother modeled, displayed and taught her children, I also realize that I'm only scratching the surface.

I also value the workmanship my Heavenly Father displays in everything that surrounds me.  At this time of the year this is evident through the fragile and delicate blooms of daffodils and tulips, the thunder that alerts us of His majesty, the bud on a tree that miraculously unfurls into a leaf, and a birds' cheerful song.  He gives life, color, personality, and "sparkle" to each facet of His creation, and He did it with His love as He declared "It is good."  

A controversial decision was made recently when President Obama announced that embryonic stem cells can now be used for medical research.  Many are hopeful that a treatment can be found that can either help or cure those who are being afflicted with maladies ranging from spinal cord injuries, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, or suffer with damaged organs. It would be wonderful to find a cure for ailments that hinder mobility, memory, and health.  But for those of us who believe that life begins at the moment of conception, this decision takes God's workmanship within this small life and places a human desire for a cure above it.    Isn't it destroying God's treasure of life in order to possibly restore health?

It's our human nature to see the grass as being greener somewhere else, especially when the controversies of life blur our focus on the Cross. Perhaps we need to use the opportunities of difficult situations God has placed in our life to model His love and share His story. His gifts of time, talents, and treasures to us are always perfect.      

Enjoying the ride,