There are always two ways to get something done. I am simplifying of course, but experience suggests that we approach life from two perspectives. One approach is to tackle things head on, doggedly pursuing the task until it is complete. The second method puts off the difficult challenges in life until the last possible moment and then utilizes every shortcut to get to the required destination. In almost every decision, we face one of these two options. In fairness to many, there are a lot of things going on. You and I struggle with schedules, commitments made with all good intentions, and people who demand that our results to fit into their agenda. Regardless of who or what touches our lives, places demands on our souls, or tugs at our hearts, the choice of how we respond to the next opportunity is ours alone.
A wise saying goes along with this analysis. “A lazy life is an empty life; but 'early to rise' gets the job done.” (Proverbs 12.27) It is a mistake to read this and then simply assume that the people who start early in the day have the answer! The contrast is between the lazy and the full experiences, not the time of day.
Last night, I sat with a young girl after ten o'clock at night reviewing geometry. She knew she needed help. She normally puts it off until the last minute, however given that I am leaving today on a trip, decided that early meant the night before! Coming in after dinner with friends, she danced in, excited to see that I was still awake. Sitting with her was an unusual treat. Here was a person looking to complete their task with thoroughness, completeness, and accuracy. She could have easily just pushed for the answers she did not know. Instead, we reviewed the known and unknown, completed problems as well as the ones she was still struggling with.
You and I can always cut corners. We can, but we will also cut out the fullness of life. Life is for living!
