The edge of the sea was rough. Water-etched sandstone, pools of water, uneven surfaces – everything one needed so that anyone could stumble, trip, and fall. As I looked and imagined myself exploring, every scene included the possibility of the potholes winning, and I was lying on the ground in a way not of my choosing. The reality of the potholes and water was visible before I ever stepped out. The potential dangers were clear and present. I could hear the echo haunting me if I went out alone: “If one falls down, the other helps, but if there’s no one to help, tough!” (Ecclesiastes 4.10)
I need more than I have. In my youth, I did not always understand how true this was. My words and actions conveyed confidence, self-reliance, and the ability to achieve what others could not. I could not see beyond my limitations to the potential of what might be. The result was an endless string of lost opportunities and failures to achieve my dreams. Life used time and repeated emotional crash and burns to build an awareness that there is more of me when I embrace Divinity living within. I am stronger when I open myself up to relationships and collaboration. So much more when I am in harmony with the greater story and the people who are a part of it.
My potential is found in the relationships I have. It was never about climbing the mountain, achieving the goal, even as I acknowledge that this was my total focus. It has always been about seeing relationships, collaborating on what we can achieve, and understanding my role within this. In responding to my calling, letting Divinity and the collective take on the heavy loads, I found my energy, passion, and clarity of purpose. I grew up ignoring harmony, only to discover that it, along with shared positive intent, is a leading indicator of success.
Every day will come with messy potholes and uneven surfaces. I need others in my life. Today starts with Divinity and grows with those I can trust.
