Ask the Rabbi with Rabbi Chaim Mintz
I’m musically gifted and have always dreamed of using my talent in a meaningful way, such as becoming a professional chazzan. But between family, work, and other responsibilities, I haven’t been able to make that a reality, and it’s frustrating to feel like my talent is just going to waste. What should I do?
Rabbi Chaim Mintz responds:
For the Glory of God
You’re absolutely right to want to develop and utilize your talents to serve Hashem. Everything in this world was created for Hashem’s glory (Pirkei Avot 6:11). That includes the talents and abilities He gives us, which are meant to be used to serve and honor Him.
The Midrash (Pesikta Rabbati 25) relates that Rabbi Eliezer had a nephew with a beautiful voice, and he would urge him, “Chiya, my son, stand up and honor Hashem with what He has bestowed upon you.”
Small But Meaningful
That said, using your talents to serve Hashem doesn’t have to happen on a grand scale. You don’t need to record albums or become a world-famous cantor to be utilizing your gift. Often, talents can be used in smaller but meaningful ways. For example, you might lead the davening (prayers) in shul (synagogue) or enhance the zemirot (Shabbat songs) at your Shabbat table with your beautiful voice.
Fresh Ideas
It’s also worth considering that there may be other ways to use your talents that you haven’t thought of yet. Talking to a mentor or someone you trust can introduce fresh ideas and new perspectives. Even if you don’t see how it is possible right now, an outside opinion might help you discover ways to use your talents within your current situation.
Utilizing Talents at a Different Stage in Life
It’s also important to remember that life has different phases. Even if you don’t have many opportunities to uses your talents right now, opportunities will likely come at a later stage in life. So don’t give up just because it’s not happening now—there’s a good chance you’ll be able to use your talents in the future. And remember, if you truly tried your best to use your talents to serve Hashem, you will be rewarded as if you did. You won’t lose out just because your circumstances made it impossible.
Written by Rabbi Aaron Shapiro
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