It is easy to measure an outcome after the fact. Win or lose, success or failure, the results are what they are. Reference measurements can be taken. Conclusions can be expressed with black and white certainty. When this is applied to an individual, inferences are often drawn to the underlying intent, effort, and motivation.
As one who has seen careers made and lose through a single result, I have often expressed my reservations on the accuracy of the conclusions. Were all dependencies delivered as expected? Content, methods, and timing are factors which are often lost as the story grows. Did anyone check into what was going on outside of work? Relationships and what happens in the lives of those we hold close, impact our ability to deliver.
Life keeps prompting me to remain curious. With every individual we interact with, there are associated stories which call out for our attention. In taking time to listen with our hearts, we discover a more accurate picture of the individual. In listening between the lines, the threads of their hearts connect with ours.
There is a secondary discovery which emerges as well. In paying attention to what s/he is paying attention to, one discovers a backdoor to their soul. In some cases, a dark side emerges. After one such observation I found myself echoing the psalmist’s observation, “All they do is think up new ways to be bad; they spend their days plotting war games.” (Psalm 140.02) In others, one discovers the heart of a soul filled with care and kindness.
The greater lesson which continues to be played out in my life is the wisdom in letting stories inform and guide. Yes, outcomes are black and white. However, their meaning is found in the stories of how individuals and communities travelled from where they were to the present. Reaching a conclusion is best made in seeing and hearing holistically with an open heart and mind.
As today begins, I find myself wrestling with outcomes, questions, and needing to move forward. Today is prime for stories, sharing, and listening.
