The plant in the lobby silently stood proclaiming its message to anyone willing to listen or see. I knew immediately that the building was home to multiple corporate tenants with no one dominating the other. Ownership was most likely in a company running everything by the numbers, with ownership distantly watching. The individuals on point for the building management were probably located anywhere except this lobby or the building. Consequently, everything a visitor noticed, and residents no longer could see, was not quite in heaven or hell, halfway to who knows where.
The scene is repeated more often than I care to remember. What I do remember is the exceptions. Healthy plants, watered, tended, and cared for in a place where no one cares to notice. I start today knowing that I will benefit as care is administered. I cannot say that this is true every day. I reflect on what I am doing for my mind, heart, and soul. It feels like there are times when I am halfway to somewhere, unsure if I am trying to live or carelessly letting go.
When my day begins, I decide. By being intentional, I find myself reaching for life and living. In my day’s first action, I set a tone for what I plan on doing with my freedom. I love the feeling that comes with responding to my calling and purpose. This decision calls for courage and resilience to go to the front and join me. This is also the first step in caring for my heart, mind, and soul.
In the dawn’s reflection, I thank those before me who have left gifts of wisdom and experience. Their work is now complete. “So, I congratulated the dead who are already dead instead of the living who are still alive.” (Ecclesiastes 4.2). The challenge that remains is for those who live. Although it feels like one is in limbo, I know I do not need to leave myself there. I can respond to the call, come, now is the time to live, care, and be the difference.
