The day started early, far too early. From the 4:30am alarm to the 5am conference call that lasted for two hours, only to merge into two conference calls falling on top of each other, I was exhausted before the sun graced the Singapore dawn. As the day progressed, things got faster and even more tiring. One might think that being aware of one’s tiredness would make a difference.
As I took a break in the early afternoon, I stumbled across a soup and sandwich shop in the modern day Change Alley. Several patrons were enjoying a leisurely soup. Sitting, reading or watching people, it was a quiet spot in the bustle of busy businesses and workers late for an appointment. An iMac caught my eye and I stood waiting. A small sign told me it was reserved for those waiting for their takeaway. As I instinctively reached for the keyboard, my mind went into neutral. Forgetting where I was, I typed in the website for gmail. One might think that I would have thought twice. I waited patiently for a response. In a moment of clarity and insight, I found myself staring at someone’s inbox. The emails were all from one person! The chronicled a bizarre soap opera that I am sure the owner did not intend to make public!
One person’s idiocy did not alert me to my own. I was aware, but not. As the day unfolded, I received a request to have a 6 pm meeting. In hindsight I knew what I was getting into. I could have responded in wisdom. Sadly, I did not.
I find myself looking at other’s awareness in awe. In one example, Paul knew he was leaving for the last time. The writer that captured the event noted that “Paul went down on his knees, all of them kneeling with him, and prayed. And then a river of tears. Much clinging to Paul, not wanting to let him go.” (Acts 20.36, 37) He was aware and acted in his awareness.
I had my 6pm meeting. It was ugly.
