I look from the balcony and see a new city centre under construction. For most of the day, there are trucks and movement all the way to the horizon. Bridges, streets, and foundation infrastructure are being laid. It is a mammoth task requiring major capital investment, great designs, and patience. As impressive as the outcome will likely be, I find myself admiring the designer and the building orchestra members the most. Their vision, collaboration, and willingness to work with intensity are worthy of reflection.
Visions and dreams come to life with belief and courage. This part of Al Reem was a sandy piece of land, essentially void of shape and purpose. Six years ago, I could not imagine it would ever change within the next decade. Fast forward, it is changing because of the belief of a few, the willingness to invest, again by a few, and the courage of many to bring the vision to life.
Building is hard work. It requires change, often from the foundation, through the framework, and finally to the finish and launch. One might think this is the end. Building is more than the initial finish line. It is the first step in a much larger story. With this new city centre along with the story of one’s life, each building block requires sweat, hard work, and the willingness to take risks.
One might think success is defined by the building and what follows. Outcomes often speak to results and how they are used. The honour goes to those willing to be in the arena, those who put everything into fighting for an outcome worthy of the gods. As an author noted, “Jesus gets far more honour. A builder is more valuable than a building any day.” (Hebrews 3.3)
The work each day seems almost imperceptible, movement without visible results. When one takes a fresh look, one sees a bridge nearing completion, foundations, and streets emerging. One’s story is told through the actions and words in each moment. Each is part of a sentence and chapter in constructing one’s life.
