There is a question that is often left unanswered, almost as if it is assumed that the question is rhetorical and the one asking the question already knows the answer.
“Why the center?”
The one answer that resonated as accurate is a simple one.
“One can never err if one starts from the center.”
Unanswered, is a follow-on; “What is the center?”
There are two answers. First the obvious; it is the point equal distant from all edges of a circle. Second, is it the starting place for truth.
I have come to appreciate that the quest to find the center is often as easy and as difficult as we make it for ourselves. The one answer to ensuring that one is at the center is to ask for help beyond one’s self. Embracing a psalm works in any faith system; “Help me, oh help me, God, my God, save me through your wonderful love.” (Psalm 109.26) I find that my willingness to being open to the shape, form, and method that the answer comes is an opportunity to hear Life.
As one try to navigate without a center reference point, it is very easy to get lost. Examples are all around me; a lost family walking with their luggage towards an urban apartment district or anyone in a place that plays to her or his weaknesses especially when they are not at full capacity. The question at any point is twofold; do you recognize that you are lost, and two, are you willing to ask and accept the help of others.
One might assume that the answer is yes and yes, however, given the respect that each person deserves, life demands that we leave the decision with them. With a smile as stories replay in my mind, asking can take many forms. For those with potential answers, it is important to remain on alert so that any form or timing of a request for help is not missed.
Today starts with the center. If I am open to being corrected, I can be confident.
