There are some things in life where no matter how hard I try, what disciplines I employ, the sum of what happens next is simple. This is not something where I am good! Like many people who discover that they have a “gap”, I have mine. It shows when I am playing sports; execute a strategy of striking at the right moment? No way! Hit them hard, up-front, and go for the win! It comes when I am asked to drive from point A to B. Taking is slow is a very problematic option. Every instinct says maximum legal speed and pushing the envelope. Waiting is simply not natural. Patience is something where I rarely excel. Caution and timing are risky elements to depend on.
As I watch politics of the corporate battle field, in the houses of democracy, and even in the streets, I find that many have an incredible sense of timing and a willingness to win the war at the cost of the battle. Seemingly innocent questions are asked, framing the scene in the mind of the other players involved. Na?ve faces are presented in conversation, letting the players casually and blindly select the path already chosen by someone “wiser” for their journey. Nothing is as it first appears. Chaos is never quite so random. Winning is more illusive than it might first seem.
I have a hard time facing life like this! I want simple and clear parameters for the game. I crave transparency and openness. I long for a sense of what it takes to win. Waiting until these things become clear is a living hell.
My God isn’t like this. John reminds me that “the God and Master of the spirits of the prophets sent his Angel to show his servants what must take place, and soon. And tell them, ‘Yes, I’m on my way! Blessed be the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.’” (Revelation 22.7) The rules are clear. Things are out in the open. Winning is my choice. We don’t have to wait.
