I will sit and learn today. I know it in advance. I always walk away with an idea or two when I share a coffee with this friend. Today I know it is guaranteed. Candidly, he is older and wiser. More importantly, he is an individual who is always learning – anything and everything. From cooking to management, from subject expertise to vacations, he is a student of life.
I have a problem I want to share with him. I do not know if he will have “the” answer. I do know that he will have a few ideas that I can consider. Experience reminds me that when I go to those open to more that I come away with new ideas and ways of looking at life. Each idea is a window that takes me into an opportunity to approach a challenge with hope and possibility.
For me, it is not always natural to let others help. I find it inspiring to read how others far wiser than I have open themselves up to more. Great leaders always worked with others. It was in their community that their greatness emerged. In one case, a great leader noted how that he “want[ed] to talk about now is the various ways God’s Spirit gets worked into our lives. This is complex and often misunderstood, but I want you to be informed and knowledgeable.” (1 Corinthians 12.1)
In my case, a combination I need to let go of a few hurdles within if our conversation is going to work. Specifically, my ego, certainty, and pride need to be put aside. If I am willing take this step, the possibility of more is born. If I open myself up to the wisdom of the community I am a part of, I can embrace the bigger story.
I am excited by the possibility that I will be gifted with insight. Each day can begin this way. Others are willing to share. The possibility is born with my willingness. It goes on to live in being present in the moment with others.
