I sat on the edge of a desk watching the awards event unfold. A raised stage had been assembled in the middle of a crowded floor of workstations by partially blocking an aisle. Microphones were in place and the amplifier and speakers temporarily strung out had been tested to ensure everyone would hear the proceedings.
In the two past events I had witnessed, the lack of audience interest had been blatant. Many continued to work at their desks, pretending to be oblivious to the proceedings going on all around them. Others milled about, chatting with friends, catching up and sharing jokes. Whatever was going on at the front was secondary to the moment at hand.
I remembered those events with distant interest. The speakers and group leaders seemed unaware of the statement that their audience was making. “I don’t care. I couldn’t be bothered. You are not relevant.”
The question I recalled now was still present; “was I also deaf?”
Today’s session had a different agenda. The group had participated in a contest. Through several rounds of cooking and tastings, the “master chef” has been chosen. It was time for the announcement.
As the proceedings got started there was a unique energy in the room. You good feel the excitement building. As the finalists were introduced, the audience turned into a larger celebration of life. I heard whistles for the first time. Some were hooting and hollering. Spontaneous applause broke out when the favorites were interviewed. It was crazy but in a wonderfully good way.
I caught myself remembering David’s reaction to the present in contrast to the past. “You rescued me from a squabbling people; you made me a leader of nations. People I’d never heard of served me.” (Psalm 18.43) I wondered again if I had been deaf and blind to what was going on around me. Did I know where life had brought me?
A celebration of buyers unfolded. I left filled with hope and renewed energy. People want something to believe. I want to be a believer. Compassion and Community offer invitations.
