In a conversation last week, I learned an old saying: "Singing for your supper."
This old phrase speaks to earning what you receive, offering value before expecting rewards, as a wandering minstrel or musician might have done in the old times. It implies that a duty must be completed before something desired can be received.
I love old sayings like this; they distill much meaning in a few words. This one made me think.
First of all, am I singing for my supper?
When I'm upset about not getting enough "supper," am I truly singing for it? Or am I just complaining and falling prey to some unhealthy sense of entitlement? Am I contributing in ways that can earn me a supper?
While I was writing these questions to myself, another thought came up. What if I'm singing to nobody? What if I'm creating value in ways or spaces that no one can see or enjoy? It would be like singing for your supper in the middle of nowhere, where no one can give you anything, let alone a supper.
So, I guess not only must I be sure to be creating value but also to do so in spaces where I can get a supper. I guess I have a lot to think about today.
Above all, that old phrase reminds me to be grateful. I'm lucky enough to have supper every day. Not just for my singing, but simply because of where and when I was born. There are people everywhere who sing beautifully, work tirelessly, yet still won't have enough. My fortune isn't solely earned—it's also a privilege that calls for gratitude.
What are you singing today for your supper? And perhaps more importantly, what suppers do you already have that require no singing at all?