I worked late into the night trying to capture the target experience and outcomes of a new digital capability. As I isolated each step in my mind, the simplicity of my goal of translating an image into words became more details and complex. What started out as a draft on one, maybe two pages, ended up as four. As I look at the piece of work, I can see a theme emerging. Simple, intuitive, easy, visual, and powerful are top of mind. I am confident I can introduce the subject through these words, helping the uninitiated with the larger story before getting in the nuances and fine print.
As I close my eyes and replay the unfolding scenes, I realize there is a pattern that is consistent with other parts of my life. Emerging from life’s chaos, uncertainty, pain, joy and wonder are simple themes and images that lead one into the larger story. The themes I can see include the following.
We rarely see every detail. Details remain eternally patient, ready and waiting for our discovery.
Compassion matters, at all times and in every circumstance.
One is part of a family because one is. This stands true regardless of our actions and how we feel about belonging or others in the family.
Love cannot be extinguished, no matter how hard we try. Love lives with each embrace, permeating everything it touches.
Connecting the dots is an unending quest, not a one-time event.
Life is a wonderful puzzle. Enjoy each moment of uncertainty, it is an opportunity to learn and grow.
As I try to see the larger story, I find myself listening to the Psalmist; “Truth sprouts green from the ground, right living pours down from the skies!” (Psalm 85.11) I see more details in the bigger story with targets and outcomes waiting to be discovered. Each is waiting for our discovery, a piece of the puzzle representing a gateway to understanding and more.
Much more is waiting, available in our lives and the details of the story we are a part of.
