I sat with a friend along edge of the south bank of the Singapore River last night. Every time I slow down and let myself settle into the present I find myself reflecting on the memories from 1969 when I first stood on this spot. The reflection always moves me into an attitude of listening and awareness. Tonight was another redux experience.
As we shared industry updates of the day, we kept circling back to three decisions. How could any organization come to the outcome that they had? On what basis would anyone in her/his right mind choose to go in this direction? Where was the common sense or street-smart awareness?
I have no answers for the examples last night. As the echoes of the conversation stayed with me, I realized that any and everyone is vulnerable to getting it wrong. There are ways we can protect ourselves. What works for you will likely be different from myself. Life reminds me that I need to carry the following with me.
Work at being prepared. Life is not a casual, float along the river without a care, kind of journey. It is a big story with epic battles, great contests, and dangerous terrain. Yesterday’s warning still applies. “Only mature and well-exercised intelligence can save you from falling into gullibility. It’s written in Scripture that God said, In strange tongues and from the mouths of strangers I will preach to this people, but they’ll neither listen nor believe.” (1 Corinthians 14.22)
Being prepared will always include spending time buried in wisdom. Walk along in silence with nature. Let Truth whisper in your ear. Listen as you read wisdom literature. God will speak to those willing to hear. Begin and end your day with a God conversation. These choices shape my life in surprising ways.
Listen to Life’s whispers. God is actively engaged in our lives. She is talking to us in the events of the day and through our experiences. Be aware. Be on the lookout. Be available.
It is a beautiful day. It is time to live.
