Light comes in many forms. Yesterday, in the face and optimism of one that has known what it is to be homeless, I rediscovered what it is like to see the light. The event was a creative brainstorming session on how people that care can respond to the challenges a particular community faces with unemployment, financial realities, and dreams. I do not know where this light points. I am not sure it matters.
The meeting began with individuals introducing themselves and their background as it related to the challenge. Specifically, people were interested in knowing what kind of business background each brought to the table. Around the table, we had the novice to the experienced, individuals experienced in the realities of despair and others who have only seen that side of life from a distance. I was surprised at the willingness of each to listen. Responses were heard in full. Challenges were seen with a spirit of shared intent. We explored. We listened. We wondered aloud.
In the course of our discussion, I found myself immersed in hope. Despite the odds, this group believed that we could make a difference. In the face of obstacles, individuals were willing to contribute what they had. With uncertainty’s presence always near, the group sensed that there was an opportunity within our reach.
Life’s reality is never far from this group. In the midst of life’s harsh touch that is all too familiar, this group believed change could come from our efforts, collectively and individually. As the conversation progressed, ideas began to take shape.
What happens next is unwritten. It is easy to imagine that in time we will look back metaphorically at this meeting and say that “Paul put his hands on their heads and the Holy Spirit entered them. From that moment on, they were praising God in tongues and talking about God’s actions.” (Acts 19.6) While it is never certain, with the light, this is possible.
Today dawns and I know my script is clean. I will write a story. I want to fill it with light.
