In the context of conflicting priorities, uncertainty, and surprises (chaos), there is an unending struggle between focus on achieving the results and worry about the process. One side argues for that the ends justify the means while the other talks about the purity and truth in the process. Inevitably the one caught in the decision think that s/he should do both. The process is important, but, one cannot leave the outcome to itself. It must be managed!
The idealist within me says that any response that is not 100% process is a response filled with doubt and a lack of trust. I hear the idealist mumbling, if only to himself, that this response is at its heart arrogant. “I” must ensure the outcome is the outcome I believe is right. The lingering observation that will not go away as I listen to the idealist is “they cannot all be wrong”. This observation references the friends and associates that respond this way as well as the self I see in the mirror.
As I consider my idealist views, I am reminded of the following.
Dreams and aspirations are not incompatible with flaws and weaknesses. Both can and do coexist with each other. It is in accepting the reality of both that I open the window to my best dreams.
Divinity works with us as we are. In accepting us without reservation, two paths emerge. First is the ability to help us create, open, and step through the windows of our soul. Divinity is ready and waiting to help us in taking the steps toward something better. Meanwhile Divinity will do what divinity does – always act with love, compassion, and acceptance by “providing a circle of quiet within the clamor of evil, while a jail is being built for the wicked.” (Psalm 94.13)
In my ability to be perfect or even as good as I can imagine, there is reason to celebrate. Every act of compassion, community, and caring is a candle of hope. Embracing the candles in our lives while wishing for more is celebrating.
