Funny motivational speaker
I had 27 chicken legs left to bake and 3 lbs of cooked potatoes left to mash. Suddenly my headache got so bad I had to quit cooking and lie down. Always ready to help, Steve listened to my brief instructions and started finishing the 40 person meal.
Delegating is a challenge for me. I’d been a single mom for most of my kids’ lives, so I am used to being in charge, taking control, and getting things done. In my kitchen, I cook while you watch. Our elderly mothers come for big family events; they sit while I cook.
Our shelter cooking team comprises Steve, my mom, and our youngest son, Zach, but I’d taken complete control. I’d chosen the menu, and I planned to make all the food. Now I needed help.
Instead of sleeping, I listened to Steve move about in the kitchen. I heard him open cupboards and wondered, “Is he adding another spice to the chicken?” “Is he measuring or just eyeballing?” “I hope the potatoes aren’t lumpy.” I bit my tongue instead of yelling directions from our bedroom. Eventually, I drifted to sleep.
An hour or so later, I woke up refreshed and headache-free. Steve had finished cooking and gotten Zack involved. They’d prepared and put the food into containers, cleaned the kitchen, and both felt good about the work they’d done.
The following day we were all engaged while serving the meal. The food was delicious, and we all had a good time. The few lumps in the potatoes proved they were homemade.
Later, I realize the need to “do it all” has burdened me and hindered others. Our sixteen-year-old son will best experience the joy of volunteering by fully participating. If they get to cook and contribute, our elderly mothers will feel more involved in our family events.
Lumps aside, everyone needs an opportunity to show off their skills and shine.
“No person will make a great business who wants to do it all himself or get all the credit.” Dale Carnegie.
