Two old friends sat at dinner, catching up on events and developments of the past six months. For reasons not understood the early part of the conversation was a confirmation of priorities and values. One excerpt from the conversation provided a clear insight into where the conversation was going.
“Getting together always energizes and reminds me about the things in life that are really important.”
The conversation that followed was a shared journey of their mutual journeys, how they were linked, and how the principles they held in common continued to shape the lives touched along the way. Listening to the conversation forced me to pause. From all external measures the two friends appeared to be successful and not hurting for money, yet success and economic rewards did not appear to be important measures in their lives. In looking at the two from a distance one be curious about what, if any chemistry existed between them, yet the respect and honor they gave each other was clear and unmistakable. As the evening progressed the journey they described found me tagging along in interest.
It was easy to conclude that they competed hard and aggressively in the market place; they also openly and honestly thirsted for something more. The evidence of their values was on clear display, even if they did not know it, as they described the people and events in their lives. Hard decisions were taken with compassion and mercy. Acceptance was clearly important but this clearly did not mean that they had never found or lost their beliefs. Winning was a part of the game and yet I sensed that giving back to those in need was something both held tightly as a higher value.
I sat wondering what rainbows I chased. Did I want it all? What matters? If their conversation indicated what life could be like then it is clear that it is “far better to be right and poor than to be wrong and rich.” (Proverbs 16.8)
Today is a fresh opportunity to catch a rainbow. Which one will you chase?
