Quests

Great destinations always involve a journey.  Grand goals, impressive achievements, and noble aspirations require individual steps, sacrifices, and often teamwork.  Often it is hard to understand the perspective while you are in the middle of the process, however reflection will paint a picture that brings the textures of the moment, nuances of the relationship shades, and bright contrast of those who would helped make things a success versus those that were opposed together.  With care, one can see and learn from the past.  With openness, one can enjoy what worked and let go of what did not.  With transparency, one can take on even greater journeys.
 
Given some great quests in the past along with an incredible challenge today, I wonder if yesterday’s adversaries are on the prowl today.  They may not be exactly the same individuals but their names are the same!  Doubt, fear, and uncertainty are formidable adversaries.  Greed, short sightedness, and blindness are familiar partners.  If all else fairs the mysterious “I” versus “team” takes charge!  Each in his or her way can destroy the journey.  This will in turn, make sure the quest is a failure.    
 
Knowing this, or perhaps fearing a sneak attack, puts one on edge.  The irony is that you and I do not need to be afraid.  God is with us.  Evil will attack, we will be hurt, and yet in spite of it all, we can achieve great things.  The fact is, that “when you go out looking for your old adversaries you won't find them—not a trace of your old enemies, not even a memory.”  (Isaiah 41.12)  Confidence can be ours.  Divinity is here.  The journey is open.
 
I say this knowing failure is always a possibility.  The dance in how one approaches the uncertainties and opportunities of each day never gets easier.  We must choose who we will work with and follow.  Will compassion win the day?  Will acceptance take precedence over exclusion?  Will teamwork be part of our view or singular sight our mantra?  The answers to these questions will determine our success.