Over the years I have had the privilege of working with some of the most amazing people. I realize that it is a clich?, however they often were the teacher that I listened to the most, even if it did not always seem like it. I do not think the names matter, except in the quietness of my heart as I honor their efforts and journeys.
From them, I learned about work ethics; the ability to work hard even when you do not feel like it, the willingness to be part of a team when you know you could gain more on your own, and the ability to listen, really listen. I found myself growing because of their methods of resolving conflicts, discussing opportunities, and openness in taking on new challenges. Excitement is infectious. Enthusiasm is contagious. Their competitive response brought out other’s willingness to give even more to the cause.
With them, I grew and matured. Learning more each day, fighting to keep just a little bit ahead so that I could do my job. Yet, there were those working with us who generated more than a few headaches. Wisdom says that “a lazy employee will give you nothing but trouble; it’s vinegar in the mouth, smoke in the eyes.” (Proverbs 10.26) It is hard to remember the individuals now, other than to recall just how far we went in spite of them because of our willingness to work together and because of God’s gift to each of our lives.
I look ahead and wonder if I will be able to remember what I learned in the yesterdays. There is so much that sits in your experience and mine that we often ignore. Just think of it; people who taught us about life, about working, and living. The gifts of learning from people acting as God’s voice. The answer lies in remember, all of it. Reflect deeply and fully. Accept the Presence’s hand today and step forward. Our efforts will not be wasted; awesome things will happen, because God is and will always be there.
