Wednesday Post - "I have a guy who..."

Conversation About Our Superpowers

I have a guy who….

This phrase is often used when suggesting a possible person with a specific skill that can help with a need, issue or problem. It may follow something like, “Oh my gosh, you have no water at your home, I have a guy who is great with all things plumbing” or “You need a DJ for your wedding, I have a guy.” Right away, the “guy” isn’t necessarily male, the “guy” is just someone who does what they do very well and that they may be willing to share that service or gift or skill with you. The phrase indicates that you may have had experience with this person and that you trust their knowledge and resourcefulness. “I have a guy that can fix your toaster.” “I have a guy that can totally fix your rattling bike chain” “I have a guy that can help disappear the evidence.” In old time movies the guy might have names like Vinnie, Guido or Al. On Angie’s List they may have names like Bill’s Tree Removal or Jill’s Math Tutoring or Emily’s Bakery.

What kind of “guy” are you?

So today I’m pondering what kind of “guy” I might be. What kind of “guy”are you? Because someone somewhere knows me (or you) as the person to call when certain kinds of gifts, skills, superpowers, abilities or natural inclinations are needed.

For some of us there may be an obvious answer. For instance, I might be “the guy” to help you write a folk song. You might be “the guy” who can help find the book you’re looking for in a public library. But we also have many subtle and beautiful gifts to share, and sometimes we don’t really see how extraordinary our gifts may be, because…well, because its something we love, something we’ve leaned into for a long time, something we tap into by nature.

For example

I know a “guy” that knows the names of trees and wildflowers and constellations and I can text him an image of another flower and ask him what it is, and he will never lord this knowledge over you, but will always always delight in the wonder of it all AND be super excited because it really is the most awesome, exciting, coolest thing in the world you noticed that infinitely delicate beautiful small thing….yes, I’m looking at you Jeff.

I know a “guy” who is the most thoughtful and amazing listener. Who listens without agenda, and hears through the details to the heart of the story, and then holds that story infinite care.

And there is more…there is always more it seems.