In the pressure of corporate environments, it is interesting to see who is trusted. Far too often the answer is no one. When teams and group face a barrage of demands and changes, it is relatively normal (common) for everyone to act individually. It seems more efficient. It appears safer. Ironically, my experience tells me that it is also a leading indicator of what binds the group together. Said another way, when demands, “disagreements and wrongs surface, why would you ever entrust them to the judgment of people you don’t trust in any other way?” (1 Corinthians 6.4) The move to safety is often a move to self.
Recently I have seen two very different responses to pressure. One follows the norm. It is every man and woman for him and herself. In this reaction, given the size of the challenge, the result is that all movement stops. We are working hard but nothing changes.
Alternatively, there is a small group that I have the privilege of working with that has turned to each other in a time of crisis. They have grasped the truth that no one individual has all the answers. They seem to know that is is not about someone telling others what to do. Their actions tell me they are looking for greater wisdom. They are looking for and embracing more.
It is a wonderful testimony to the foundation of the team. I wish I knew how to capture their spirit and energy. It is a living example of hope! I realize that communities are a collection of individuals that share values and priorities. From their diversity comes their strength. In trust they build.
It is rarely easy to trust others. When uncertainty occurs, one must ask for clarification knowing that the answer may turn the possible into the real. Yet it is in the process of trusting others that we step into the opportunity to be greater than what we are.
I began today wondering what will happen. I know it will involve others. I will be greater for their engagement.
