I am a big believer in self-awareness. Knowing one’s strengths and weaknesses does not change anything externally. The knowledge can equip our souls, giving us the ability to respond more effectively in a given situation. Ironically, knowing ourselves better does not always lead to positive outcomes. Being aware of what we have done can create a sense of guilt and remorse. Understanding our weaknesses often nurtures the doubts that hide within our hearts. The negatives only exist within our imagination, yet they impact on our physical bodies is real.
When I see leaders with a strong sense of self-awareness, I find myself walking beside Hope. Their knowledge tells me that they will work with others to compliment the gaps in their lives. Weakness will be seen as opportunities. Roles will be seen in a greater context. Community, teamwork, and extraordinary possibilities are within reach.
Being aware is not a weakness or a burden. It is an insight and an opportunity. When “John was finishing up his work, he said, ‘Did you think I was the One? No, I'm not the One.’” (Acts 13.24) John understood his role. As a result, John played a critical role in the great things that unfolded. You and I hold the same opportunity within our grasp as we begin today.
We can understand our gaps, relying on our communities and God to compliment our lives.
We can be sensitive to our biases, intentionally asking others to give us guidance and feedback along the way.
We can be intentional in our actions, knowing our limitations.
There are no promises in life for guaranteed results. What we do, why we do, is far more important than the outcomes. Outcomes do matter, however they are always in context of the process we used to get there.
Today’s freedom is our opportunity to reach out, nurture the lives around us, and make the world a better place. We should never forget that everything along the way matters. With full knowledge of our weaknesses, God invites us to be Divine hands, Sacred ears, and Love’s voice.
