I was recently sent a link about a woman named Susan Boyle. Perhaps you've heard of her. She's the participant on the TV show "Britain's Got Talent" who, thanks to the net, has wowed millions of people with a stunning performance of "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Miserables. To watch the clip of her performing is painful at first -- people openly snicker and mock her as she comes on stage and interacts with the hosts. But when she begins singing the mockery turns to shock and then adulation. Many are left dumbfounded by her performance. But should we be? Because she looks plain, is not glamourous, seems rough around the edges and is awkward (you would be too infront of a television audience!) doesn't mean that she can't have a beautiful voice. We have so many expectations and preconceived notions -- we try so hard to fit things in our different compartments, to draw conclusions so quickly that we are floored when they don't fit! That's why I love stories like this -- it keeps us on our toes, it reminds us that (as the cliche goes) things are not always what they seem. God has given each of us talents and abilities to share with others -- and these talents and abilities come in all sorts of different packages. Right now, Susan's talents are bringing great joy to a lot of people... and perhaps more importantly reminding us to not be so fast in passing judgment. Read more about Susan in this CNS article, or watch her performance on You Tube HERE.