MONDAY THOUGHTS: WHEN OPPORTUNITY COMES

There are some things you can do, but just don't want to do.

There are other things you initially think are great opportunities, but after a second look, you realize the green grass is actually artificial turf. 

Some things seem designed just for you, and you weren't even looking for them. Then, there are some things from which you have to walk away, no matter how appealing they may see to others. 

You know what your capabilities and limitations are, but sometimes people take chances on you--see something that you either don't see-- or don't want to see.

Whether you're recommended highly and first, or desperately suggested at the last minute (because no one else is available), it's STILL up to you to perform. The better you do, will lessen the need/demand for an undeserving hookup, should another opportunity arise. 

Do your best, check your ego, attitude, and drama at the door. Do the job well, CARE about the work, lay aside your agenda, refrain from butt kissing, understand your role, study, be prepared, and NEXT time, the person seeking a particular service just may contact you PERSONALLY (sometimes to the dismay of the person who recommended you and expects your eternal gratitude. 

Yes. Some people have no problem taking credit for what God has done, and want you to be beholden to them no matter WHAT happens in your life). 

You don't ever have to toot your own horn. Let others take up that activity if they choose. Spend YOUR time competing with yourself--not in some obsessive way that sucks all of the joy out of what you do, but in an attempt to do an equally effective, or better job than you did the last time.
The biased word of a friend, or the favors you're owed might help you get a foot in the door, but let your value be based on your consistency, competence, and effort, and don't ever let that competency cause you to think more highly of yourself than is reasonable. 

A lot of very talented people still haven't figured out that, although they are excellent at what they do, their own bad attitude is a repellent. They're also paying much too much attention to people with authority, as opposed to people with responsibility. The person with authority is subject to change, and the next person may not be as fond of you to ignore that you aren't cutting the mustard. 

Your gift will make room for you-- the same way a bribe can get you a good table at a restaurant, or a place at the head of a line. When a positive opportunity comes, there are enough external, extenuating factors that can cause it to disintegrate without you being one of them.