Bill was in his mid-50s when I first met him. I had begun working with hospice, and he was one of my first patients.

Outgoing, positive, and frustrated were the words I would use to describe him at that point. His illness had made him wheelchair-bound, and he was no longer free to do what he wanted without help.

During one of our many conversations, he said something I found very interesting.

“I really miss my job.”

Of course, my next question was, “What did you do?”

“I was a garbage man,” he replied, with a smile

I must admit my first thought was — you miss being a “garbage man?” But as he talked, he lit up, reminiscing about the good times he had enjoyed during the many years he had worked.

“I miss it so much! Being outside every day, riding on the back of the truck, seeing the people . . .”

It occurred to me that one of Bill’s gifts was service to others. It didn’t matter the setting. He enjoyed the work and seeing people in the neighborhoods.

We might not realize what makes another person happy. Or the God-given gifts/talents they have that gives meaning to their lives.

What do you enjoy doing as a job or a hobby? These skills/talents are a gift from God. Enjoy them as you honor and serve God!

Romans 12:6 — “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us . .. .”