The “reel”. That’s no typo. And no, this post isn’t about Tamera leaving the award winning, daytime talk show. The “reel” I’m speaking of is the highlight reel vs. the blooper reel.

When I think of a highlight reel, the SportsCenter Top 10 Plays segment comes to mind. They give you the chance to relive the best of the best sports highlights and action from around the world. Do you hear Stuart Scott’s voice in your head? Me too! We scroll through social media and see everyone’s new, fun, & exciting this, that, and the other. I consider those the “highlights”—what people want you to see (read: You gotta give the people what they want).

Now, think back to some of your favorite shows from the 90’s- there were full episodes dedicated to airing some of the most interesting outtakes during the filming process. Producers pulled together hours of footage revealing the true behind the scenes happenings–stumbling over and forgetting lines, tripping on a rug, etc. I like to call those the “bloopers”—the mistakes, the “almost had it” moments. The bloopers in our lives, when we think about it, are all the things we don’t have, places we haven’t gone, and relationships we haven’t established.

 Then somehow we start comparing our blooper reel to someone’s highlight reel. You’ve done it. I’ve done it. Still doing it. Despite all of our highlights and bloopers, someone wants what we have, wants to do what we’ve done, and wants to see what we’ve seen and vice versa. But, when I start comparing clips, I have to verbally tell myself to stop and remind myself of the following truths:

My path is different.

My calling is different.

My assignment is different.

My purpose is different.

And might I add, so very special.

Here’s my challenge to you: Run the tape back, reflect on your very own highlight and blooper reel, and take note of how these moments play into your life at this very moment. You’ll be guaranteed to see at least one of the following: what you have, what you’ve learned, how far you’ve come, and where you’re headed.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this. Talk to me!