The Formula 1 trivia that has stayed with me in the stillness after the checkered flag and concerts faded into silence is this; there are 508 settings you can make to through the steering wheel of the current cars. Really?!
The idea that I could learn to navigate the buttons to get to the setting of choice is just on the edge of my imagination. The dream that I could do it while navigating a 3 plus mile street circuit at speeds up to 200 miles per hour is beyond my wildest dreams. I so far beyond my comfort zone, overwhelmed just thinking of G-forces, avoiding the walls, trying to stay off the curbs, and trying to avoid being embarrassed by my pathetically slow lap time.
As I wrestle with my imagination and the multiple images of how badly I could crash into the barriers, I realize that I am losing track of the bigger picture. A wisdom reminder when riding motorcycles is true on the larger stage; always remember that you will go where you look. If you want to safely ride through a turn, look to the exit! If you want to go somewhere, look in that direction. The fastest and most efficient way to wreck is to watch what you want to avoid.
The reminder of focus, attention, and remember the plot has repeatedly played out in every generation. One writer made a note that a community “forgot God, their very own Savior, who turned things around in Egypt,” (Psalm 106.21) Disaster followed. In the age with 508 settings on a steering wheel, data flying at me visually and orally, and endless competition for me attention, there are three thoughts that take precedence.
Wrapping my heart with my values, aspirations, and priorities changes the way I see.
Being in the moment is the best place for me to see life’s opportunities.
In the midst of everything, chaos, uncertainty, and doubts, you and I have the freedom to choose what comes next.
Today is waiting for the touch of our hands, feet, and voice.
