• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Prayer Wine Chocolate

a spiritual journey to motherhood & beyond

  • Home
  • Wine and Chocolate
  • Faith
  • CSMI
  • Adoption
  • Life
  • Prayer Journaling
  • Resources
  • About
  • Contact
  • Be Yourself!: A Journal for Catholic Girls
  • Donate a Be Yourself Journal
  • Catholic Coloring Pages
  • Shop

Nov 16, 2016
Faith· Life

My Stupid Talent Was a Great Blessing

This post contains affiliate links.  Please see my About Me page for more details.

As a child, I loved playing sports.  I started playing tennis in the summer when I was seven, and when I was nine my parents signed me up for soccer.

I loved them both.  However, I was not so great in either.

soccerballfieldquote.jpg

I kept at it though.  I truly enjoyed playing.  I also liked that there were other girls my age playing that shared my interest.  I had hoped to become a part of their crowd.

That didn’t really happen.  I wasn’t cool.  I was awkward, shy, and so skinny I was often made fun of; in fact a boy in my class decided to honor me with the nickname “toothpick”.

I was not seen as athletic, although I saw myself as an athlete.

The fact that others did not see me as I saw myself was made crystal clear when a teacher put me on a tug of war team in 8th grade and literally every classmate vocally objected to the idea. In response to their protests, I approached the teacher in private and asked to be taken off the team.

Not being good at what I loved made me sad.  Not having a bond with my teammates made me even sadder.

But, I did not give up.

Towards the end of my eighth grade school year, a friend of mine said she was signing up for track.  I decided to sign up too.

I was put in the 400 Meter race (one lap around the track) and I won.

I thought, well that’s weird.  That probably won’t happen again.

But it did.  I was apparently good at something – running.

It felt good to actually be good at something.  It also felt foreign!

running.jpeg

So I kept running.  I went from not knowing what cross country was to being one of the top girls on my high school team as a freshman.  I had for the longest time dreamed of being in high school and starring in the drama productions that drew in crowds; but I ended up choosing running over acting in the play.  That was not an easy choice for me, but it was the right choice.

The team was small, but the girls were very nice.  They became such good friends of mine. I ran almost every season in high school; and when I was a senior the athletic director gave a speech at our sports banquet saying, “every time this young woman puts sneakers on, she wins All-Catholic”.  Then he awarded me the Athlete of the Year award.  Ironically, many of the girls I had played soccer and tennis with were there , hoping to win that award.

I was happy and grateful.  But I didn’t understand why God gave me this talent.  I didn’t think it helped anyone.  I did not get a college scholarship for cross country or track.  I was recruited by a few Division II and III coaches though, and was given a lot of financial aid based on need.  I remember my dad being very disappointed that I didn’t get a scholarship. Personally, I was relieved.  I was not a straight A student.  I struggled in school.  I wanted to go to college and do well – and I had a feeling I may have to quit running at some point in order to better my grades.  I didn’t want to be obligated to run.

trackrace.jpeg

I started college as a Nursing Major.  I knew I wanted to help people . . . but that’s all I really “knew”.  I ran for my college Cross Country team and started taking training more seriously than I had in high school.  It was so tough.  I can still remember workouts that required running up steep hills and me asking God,”why?  why this?  This is not helping anyone!”. I recall thinking, “this is a STUPID talent!”

Only runners understand the complexity of our sport.  I would go into the ladies room before a meet or race and everyone in there is saying, “Ugh, I don’t want to run!”  Racing is nerve wracking and it hurts.  I didn’t love running like I loved soccer and tennis.  I did it because I liked the feeling of being good at something.  There is a great satisfaction when you run a 5K faster than you ran the last one.  Running allows a person to measure progress.  

But even throughout college, I kept wondering why God gave me this talent.  I wanted to help people.  How was spending hours a day training and hours of my weekend at meets helping anyone?

I changed my major from Nursing to undecided, simply because I didn’t feel passionate about nursing.  Eventually I became a Psychology major and worked toward a teaching certification.  I thought I would eventually help students in a role as a guidance counselor.

And I kept running.  I won two conference championships in college.  It felt really good to win.

I graduated college and started teaching.  I coached a few high school teams and tried to keep running on a regular basis, but that was really difficult.  I hope I helped some students I coached.

At age 30, I finally got married.  I had been wanting that for a long time.  I asked my brother to speak at my wedding.  My brother Brian and I are close – and my brother is hilarious! I knew he’d give a great speech and have the guests laughing.

brianweddingspeech.jpg

And he did.  He gave an awesome speech.  He not only had everybody laughing, he also interwove sentiment within it.  And to my surprise, he shared how he became motivated to run and eventually coach.

He said it was because he watched me do it, and thought:

“if Amy can do it, maybe I can too.”

Brian then shared how much he loves coaching and how he attributes my example as one of the reasons he made the choices he made in his own life.

My brother won a “Lifetime Coaching Award” at age 30.  He is an excellent coach.  Not only does he help students become incredible athletes, but he teaches them good character.

I had no idea the impact I had.  All that time I was telling God, “I’m not helping anybody.”

God knew I was.

As I reflect on “why did God give me the talent to run well”, I not only think of my brother. Don’t get me wrong, that really touched my heart!  But I don’t think I was the only reason he chose the path he did.  I also look back and see that when I chose to run in high school, I made a few friends that eventually were going to daily Mass, and inviting me along.  I can also look back and see that being at practice and pushing myself there made sure I was not somewhere else doing who knows what.

Running allowed me an environment that nurtured my faith . . . what a great blessing.

Linking up with Reconciled to You for a #worthrevisit Wednesday!

Share158
Tweet
Pin15
Share3
173 Shares
Previous Post: « Prayer, Wine, and Chocolate Gifts for Every Occasion!
Next Post: Getting Ready For Advent and Christmas! »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Brittany says

    November 16, 2016 at 12:15 pm

    It’s amazing how sometimes our words and actions are meant to inspire others, that we’re always part of God’s plan even if it’s not necessary how we imagine we can/should be used. I played soccer in college so I completely understand those crazy training sessions and just praying to “get through it.”

  2. Candy Hartmann says

    November 16, 2016 at 6:17 pm

    I can relate. I’m 58 and still haven’t found my talent. lol I just do my best at what I enjoy. Thanks for sharing. It’s so important to hear this, especially for young people.

    • Amy says

      November 16, 2016 at 10:52 pm

      Candy I am sure you have more talents than you realize! I agree though, I want to tell this story to every young person!

  3. A Beautiful Camouflaged Mess says

    November 16, 2016 at 11:43 pm

    How amazing – what a beautiful epiphany you had regarding the impact you had, but more importantly – the impact running has had on your life! It is awesome when we have those realizations. That said, I am not a runner; I kind of envy runners for their dedication to their sport. 🙂

  4. Alicia Potvin says

    November 17, 2016 at 7:35 am

    A lot of the time we affect people especially when we think it isn’t anything special. Most of the work I do in pyrography I just think as me tracing and burning what I think will work with that picture and yet, visitors to our home seem to like them. I never ceases to surprise me.

  5. Alicia says

    November 17, 2016 at 4:02 pm

    I love hearing stories of how God works in the lives of others. Thanks for sharing. 🙂

    • Amy says

      November 17, 2016 at 4:55 pm

      Thank you so much for reading!

  6. Lorna says

    November 18, 2016 at 5:03 am

    I’ve not found my talent, but I’ve enjoyed hearing about yours. Thank you!

    • Amy says

      November 18, 2016 at 7:46 am

      Oh Lorna, I am sure you have many talents! Thank you so much for reading my story and I am so happy you enjoyed it!! xoxo

  7. Kate Ski says

    December 5, 2016 at 8:41 pm

    Love this story!

    • Amy says

      December 5, 2016 at 9:59 pm

      So glad you do! Thank you!

  8. James Milliken says

    February 1, 2017 at 8:05 am

    An inspiring story, Amy – and a great reminder that only God has the big picture. Thank you!

    • Amy says

      February 1, 2017 at 10:19 am

      Thank you James!

Primary Sidebar

       

Amy is the Co-Founder of CatholicsOnline.net

10 Free resources

10 Free resources

10 free resources for subscribers!

10 free resources for subscribers!

GUIDE: How to Plan your Own Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat

Be Yourself! Journal

Journal for tweens and teens

prayerwinechocolate

This is how I convinced my 5 year old daughter to This is how I convinced my 5 year old daughter to take one dose of Tylenol today.

And if you’re thinking “just make her take it”… you’ve never met my daughter. Also, we tried that once… she threw it up on us in protest.

As a mother, I just wanted her to take her medicine because I knew she would feel better.
I love her (obviously) and wanted to do everything possible to help her.

My sons take medicine willingly. 

This got me thinking…
God, our Father, loves us.
We are His children.

Some of us go to Him in prayer often.
We see the gift that it is and embrace it.

But some of us… might need a little wine and chocolate to get us there.

In a few weeks we’ll be in Lent and there will be much talk of fasting and making sacrifices.
These acts of faith are important. 
But we all are on very unique journeys and have very different strengths.

I just want to encourage you to keep inviting others to pray with you. If you find yourself offering sweets to draw friends into a closer relationship with Jesus, the ultimate Healer, that’s okay.
Once they experience the power of prayer… they’ll desire that relationship more than any food or drink.
Keep praying!
God bless you!
#Catholic #Catholicthoughts #Catholicmom #Catholicwoman #CatholicChristian #catholicfellowship #prayerwinechocolate #praymore #TheChosen #Catechism
All Love Boxes are different, but all have been pr All Love Boxes are different, but all have been prayed over!
#Godlovesyou #Praymore #Catholicsonline #Catholics #Catholicholiday #Catholicgift #Catholicblog #pinksaltriot
Pink Salt Love boxes are available! Perfect for th Pink Salt Love boxes are available! Perfect for that Catholic teen and young adult you LOVE! ❤️ 📦 
Link in bio!

I am so excited about those tassel earrings … and the message on the back 💯

#Catholicgifts #Catholicgift #Catholicshop #Confirmationgift #Catholicyouth #catholicyouthministry #catholicyouthminister #Youthgroup #pinksaltriotlovesme #pinksaltriot #Valentinegift #galentinesday As an associate of Pink Salt Riot, I earn on qualifying purchases.
Any name is fine! Say this prayer for 9 months ❤ Any name is fine! Say this prayer for 9 months ❤️!
Subscribers to Prayer Wine Chocolate’s email newsletter get a free print of this prayer! 
#spiritualadoption #Prayfortheunborn #prolife #FultonSheen #Catholicprayers #Catholicministry #Catholicsonline #Generationlife #cultureproject #Catholicsaints
Catholic Author and writer friends… I have some Catholic Author and writer friends… I have some awesome news, resources and events to share with you!

If you want to write a book or already wrote one but want to learn more about making your book a ministry and marketing that work, here are two online events I want to make sure you know about:

1. The Catholic Writers Guild is hosting an online conference in February. I’m giving a talk about using social media for marketing! There are many other talks and even pitch sessions with publishers on the schedule. The link is in my bio… check it out and register today!

2. The Fiat Self-Publishing Academy early bird registration ends tomorrow! The first LIVE event is February 1st and the topic is 🔥 Making your book a ministry… I talked to the Founder, Kate Franz, and she has an incredible line-up waiting for you! That link is in my bio too (and is an affiliate link… if you sign up I make a commission).

Tell me what you’d love to write a book about in the comments!!
#Catholicwriter #Catholicauthor #Catholicblogger #Catholicblog #Catholicbook #Catholicbooks #Catholicmarketing #Catholicgifts #Catholicsocialmedia #Catholicinfluencers #Catholicbookclub
#PhiladelphiaEagles #archphilly #PhiladelphiaEagles #archphilly
A simple way to pray… invite a friend to join yo A simple way to pray… invite a friend to join you!
#prayerwinechocolate #Catholicfriends #Catholicfellowship #Catholicmom #Catholicwife #Catholicwoman
This bottle of wine was a Christmas gift and my hu This bottle of wine was a Christmas gift and my husband and I both really enjoyed it!
Have you tried it?
🍷 It’s a red 🍷
#redredwine #Catholicvineyard #Catholicwine #Catholicblogger #prayerwinechocolate
I’m trying to be more patient. #Catholicmom #Sai I’m trying to be more patient.
#Catholicmom #Saintquotes #Catholicreels #Catholicfamily #Catholicwife #Catholickids #Catholic
Need a reason to try out prayer journaling? I have Need a reason to try out prayer journaling?
I have about 7 for you….
#prayerjournal #biblejournal #Catholicprayers #Catholicgram #Catholicinstagram #CatholicChristian #Catholicreels #Catholicsonline #Catholicinfluencers #Catholicblog #Catholicmom #Catholicwoman #Catholicwife
You might need these!! Did you know subscribers to You might need these!!
Did you know subscribers to my email newsletter get 40 free prayer journal prompts for Lent?
If you have not gotten yours yet… go grab them!
✏️ 
If you have the freebies and crave more, I just wrote 40 new prompts and compiled them in an ebook!

You’re getting a sneak peak at one of the prompts in this post (yes, I color in my prayer journal sometimes!)

Catholic Prayer Journal Prompts help you slow down, spend time with God and grow closer to Jesus. These 40 prayer journal prompts are for you to use in any order you prefer. 
Go get yours!
Link in bio!
#prayerjournal #prayerjournalprompts #praymore #Catholicprayers #Jesusjournaljunkies #Catholicjournal #BibleJournaling #Catholicblog #Catholicauthor
Sometimes things that make us uncomfortable are ac Sometimes things that make us uncomfortable are actually good for us.
Exercise for the body, a good confession for the soul.
You deserve both good health and God’s grace.
You can do this! God bless you!
#Catholic #Repentandbelieve #Catholiccontent #Catholicinspiration #Catholicinfluencers #Catholicinstagram #Saintquotes #Catholicsigns #Catholicmemes #Catholicfriends #Christianinspiration
We've been watching THE CHOSEN . . . Why? Well b We've been watching THE CHOSEN . . .

Why?  Well because I could not watch yet another episode of America's Funniest Home Videos (now called AFV or as my 5 year old son calls it "epic fails").

I will be honest with you, I watched the first episode years ago and thought, "this is boring".

But I kept hearing about it and all I heard were positive things.

I watched Season 2 begin Live on Facebook, and I did like it - but I didn't watch any more than those two LIVE episodes that I can remember.

I have been wanting to watch it, but just couldn’t find the motivation- then I thought I would enjoy it more if my husband and I watched it together. 
Then thought, this is the perfect show to watch as a family!

When I was growing up, there were certain nights we all watched the same show:
The Dukes of Hazard
Family Ties, Growing Pains, and dare I say it - The Cosby Show?
My younger siblings would watch what was known as TGIF - Full House and Family Matters

Today, we have way to many choices.  Everyone wants a turn to pick a show.
This show, The Chosen, is bringing us together as a family.

My 5 year old asks, "Can we watch The Chosen tonight?"
My 10 year old says he doesn't like it . . .then he scoots up next to me and says he actually does like it.

My daughter falls asleep on my lap while we watch it.

And I'm happy to report, I've laughed out loud a few times!  I'm also looking forward to watching it again with my family (we sit down a couple times a week to watch an episode!)

Have you watched it?  Tell us in the comments!
#TheChosen #Catholic #Catholiccouple #Catholicfamily #Familyshow #Catholicchristian #Catholicmom #BingeJesus
Saint Therese’ is such an incredible Saint for y Saint Therese’ is such an incredible Saint for young girls to learn from and talk to in prayer!!!
#CatholicSaints #CatholicSaint #Jubileeyear #LittleFlower #SaintTherese #roseprayer #Novena #Novenaroseprayer #catholicparenting
Heading to the Post Office today and don’t have Heading to the Post Office today and don’t have many of these left!
Want one?!
Order today!
Link in bio!!
#Catholic #Catholickids #Catholichome #catholichomeschool #Confirmationprep #Confirmationgift #middleschoolbooks #Catholickids
My husband Matt will tell you… Catholic Coffee ( My husband Matt will tell you… Catholic Coffee (@catholiccoffee ) is delicious!
He also can’t wait to take his French Press camping on the next Troops of Saint George weekend trip.
If you want to give it a try, use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE for 15% off!
#Catholic #Catholiccoffee #Catholics #Catholicmarriage #Catholicgift #Jesusandcoffee #CoffeeandJesus
So glad Matt likes his gift… and that he’s bee So glad Matt likes his gift… and that he’s been sharing it with me! The coffee is GOOD!
Catholic Coffee provided in exchange for an honest review… and honestly we BOTH LOVE IT!
If you make a purchase from @catholic.coffee use the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE 
#Catholiccoffee #troopsofSaintGeorge #catholicgentleman #Catholicfamily #Catholicfaith #Catholicgift #giftideasformen
I gotta get better at examining my conscience… a I gotta get better at examining my conscience… any advice? #Catholic #Sacraments #Catholics #Catholicsonline #Catholicreels #InstaCatholic
Prayers that filled my head and heart when struggl Prayers that filled my head and heart when struggling with infertility:

🌹 lots of novenas to Saint Therese’
✏️ many letters to God in my journal… some addresses to Jesus, some to Our Loving Father… others, I can’t recall. Lots of pouring my heart out.
📝 Letters to Saints… I remember writing to Saint Nicholas… patron Saint of children and honestly, infertility is extra heavy around Christmas… so many dreams would feel out of reach. My heart believes in miracles and treasures memories of jolly old Saint Nick… it just made sense to me.
📿 many Rosaries with friends 
And one more thing that I can recall at this moment…
A written description of the children I envisioned being mine.
There were 3.
One loved science. One had a very special bond with my brother. I don’t recall being specific about boys v girls.
But I described them.
Maybe that was how I surrendered my prayer to God.
If you are struggling with infertility… never give up on prayer.

#infertility #nfp #Catholicfamily #adoptionisalovingoption #catholicprayers #prayerjournal
Link in bio!! #Catholic #Biblestudy #Scripture #Ca Link in bio!!
#Catholic #Biblestudy #Scripture #CatholicYouth #newevangelization #ccd #religiouseducation #catholicfaith #bibleinayear #Catechism #catechist #youthministry #Catholickids
Load More Follow on Instagram

Footer

       
a spiritual journey to motherhood & beyond

Copyright © 2023 · Cultivate Theme theme by Restored 316