What is it about Susan Boyle that has captured the imaginations of people all over the world? The video of her audition on Britain’s Got Talent has been viewed on YouTube over 100 million times and counting. Articles and blog posts about her pop up daily like spring flowers.

Is it the fact that she is nearly 48 years old and is getting her big break at an age when most people have given up on their dreams?

Is it the fact that her raw, untrained talent is astounding everyone who hears her sing and offers proof that gifts can be found in the most unexpected places?

Or maybe it’s the fact that she’s one of us. She’s ordinary folk. She is unmarried, unemployed and lives alone with her cat. And until recently she didn’t color her graying hair or pluck her ample brows, her amazing talent unaffected by Hollywood tastes.

Here is my theory on why Susan Boyle’s star has risen to global consciousness. We are all ordinary people with sparks of extraordinary potential—no matter our age, our appearance, or our current circumstances.

Your extraordinary talent may not be singing beautifully in front of a worldwide audience. Maybe it’s listening to elders share their life story. Maybe it’s rescuing cats. Maybe it’s raising six children to be outstanding human beings. Maybe it’s sharing the Dharma or scripture in a powerful way with your local Buddhists or Christians. Maybe it’s teaching first graders and instilling in them a love of learning. Maybe it’s creating fun and empowering video games.

Yes, your extraordinary talent could be something more commonly praised and rewarded in this society, like growing a multi-million dollar business, writing a New York Times bestseller, or acting in a Hollywood movie. But what is most extraordinary is how each of us, in our own way, is able to put more love and kindness into the world.

What extraordinary talent have you been hiding behind your ordinary life? It may take some searching, but I guarantee it’s there. This is your big break. The stars have aligned. Susan Boyle, through her own example, has given you permission to go for it. It’s time to step into your potential.

Watch Susan Boyle’s video here, if you haven’t seen it! 

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