I find myself walking in the wake of choices that I made almost a decade ago. There was no way that I could have imagined how things were going to play out. My work has taken surprising turns. Life has carried me destinations that I never imagined. Staying in touch with friends has been a challenge that has never gotten easier. At this stage, my memories of my motives and intent live mostly in my imagination. What I see now are individuals and relationships.
I am fortunate. Very few individuals see the outcome of the people that s/he invested their time in. In my case, there are several coming back into my life. While we are both different, gray hair creeping in, an extra pound or two, and a lot of life under our belts, we see each other in context of the choices made then.
It is a kind memory. Our positive intents outlasted the moments of selfishness. Our extended offers of help reached beyond the pain that comes with the journey. The trust born then has only growth with time.
I see hope more clearly as we reconnect. I know the road ahead will be difficult. I am not blind. I can also see the possibilities. I know we will struggle. The realities of life, its fragility and uncertainty, are pressing on many corners. I can also see a community that is willing to help.
Where the connections will take me is unknown. I cannot see the road ahead. The relationships remind me that this is probably not important. What I do with what I know is. I sense that others have been in my shoes before. They paid attention to the people in their lives and let the future unfold. As a result, “in such ways it became evident that the Word of the Master was now sovereign and prevailed in Ephesus.” (Acts 19.20) It happened then. I believe that it can happen now.
Life seems random, but today reminds me that there is more cohesion than I realize. We are bound together.
