Walking the streets of New York, riding the subway, and negotiating the price of something you might like with a street vendor can be fun! It is still easy to spot tourists and newcomers on the subway; eyes wide open, a smile of enjoyment when kids pull one antic or another. When people are walking there are still giveaways, however I find myself falling into the same behavior! There is so much to see, observe, and enjoy! Only the most na?ve try to win at the card games on the street.
Knowing that I do not know all the rules and risks helps. I am a bit more cautious. I do not wander down streets when everyone seems to be avoiding that direction unless I am very confident of my destination. I do not walk up to strangers and try to engage them in conversation. I know that I am a tourist!
Often, I forget just who and what I am. My confidence builds and I begin to rely on my skills, confidence, and ego. There are times where my first few steps find temporary success. The awareness of my vulnerability, that I am truly a tourist who journeys here for a short while, is lost. The outcome is always a crash and burn!
I am not suggesting that every New Yorker is able to avoid trouble. Sometimes trouble hits the innocent. At times the decisions of others cascades into a disaster that touches young and old, involved, and those who just happened to be there. Even being aware of this risk may not change the outcome.
I know I long for God presence in my live to deal with my self centered streak. With longing and pursuit I am “saved from much trouble; a bad person [self dependant] runs straight into it.” (Proverbs 11.8) By knowing who and what I am, I am able to see and seize the hand God offers me. The outcome is hope, peace, and confidence; no matter what happens! Awareness of “self” and God is key. You have this choice.
