As I see and experience more sides to the individuals that work for my largest client, I am struck by how much more there is to every story. Observations include the following.
Mundane externals from one perspective can give way to innovative and creative behaviors in another. One paragraph may be an indicator of the chapter. In great measure, there is a chance that it is a twist in the story, the exception to the flow, the texture that gives dimension and pause to the whole.
What one focuses in at work is not necessarily her/his passion. Individuals often develop a reputation based on specialist abilities and performance. When these are seen by others as strengths, there is a natural tendency for the telltales to be leading indicators of exception capabilities and skills. Based on recent observations, even the strongest of these are only part of the unabridged version of the story. It is difficult to have a sense of the whole with only one piece.
As we mixed and mingled in a social setting, I was struck by the curiosity I have. I doubt I will be able to quench that thirst. In order to do that, I would need to build enough trust with each so that we could sit and share her/his story as a dialogue. I love listening with permission to ask questions in a spirit understanding and sharing life’s center! When this happens, it is a priceless gift that I hope I will always honor and respect.
The additional insight also led to an observation; as access to another’s story deepens, the center of their lives becomes more and more visible. I hear some echo the words of the psalmist; “Lift high God, our God; worship at his holy mountain. Holy. Yes, holy is God our God.” (Psalm 99.9) It is always energizing to meet their god at the center of their being, especially when it reflects the psalmist’s ideals.
I wake to a reflection questioning my heart’s center. I hope it is always a center of compassion, community, and caring.
