Have you ever asked yourself, ”Am I a good steward?” It’s a question to ask ourselves from time time to time, if we want our world to work for all people, regardless of their status in life. A particular person’s circumstance of being born, whether to a single mother, a family with two parents or a survivor of catastrophe are out of our control from day one. But as children grow and mature, they are influenced by these early factors. Therefore, an individual is born into an environment that either nurtures stewardship or doesn’t.
That is where each of us begins. So where one goes from there is up to each person to decide. First of all, we must ask ourselves if we even know what stewardship means? After all, the word itself may have never been used in conversation. What is important though, is the meaning of stewardship. That is what matters. Basically, they are people who deeply care about other people.
After some internet research I found many characteristics of good stewards. Here are the ones I consider as they fit into my worldview:
*they are committed to serving others
*they believe in sustainability
*they practice inclusiveness
*they embrace innovation and change
*they are team players
*they believe in communication
*they always acknowledge and thank people
If this list of characteristics appeals to you, you are probably already doing some or most of these things. If they are already an important part of your life, then you most likely are exhibiting good stewardship whether or not you describe it in these terms. Being a good steward is something to strive to do for ourselves and others. Whether we are successful or not, is determined by the people around us. But if I ask myself the question, “Am I a good steward?” it becomes a little self-evaluation that keeps me thinking of these goals. It is a way for me, as an individual, to strive to contribute to a worldview that values all of our citizens. Maybe this is your path too. It may not seem like much for a person to do. But to me, every little bit matters.