It had been a long day. Visually, one might think it was just a day, except 24 hours had long passed. I climbed into the rental car, deluding myself that I was still alert. With confidence, I monitored the dashboard. With hindsight, I see myself as an echo of an old writer’s observation so long ago. “All this I saw, as I applied my mind to everything done under the sun. There is a time when a man lords it over others to his own hurt.” (Ecclesiastes 8.9)
The danger in ignoring reality starts within. There were no incidents on the two-hour drive following the 28 hours since I began my preparations for the trip. As I sit reflecting on the morning after, I am fully aware of my tiredness, slower reflexes, and potential lack of attention to details on the road. Yes, I survived along with my passenger. Was it the best choice? The obvious answer is no. Even as I begin to challenge myself about yesterday, I hear Life’s whispers asking me to consider what I am ignoring in the present.
Confidence is not the same as being prepared. With a humble heart, I am thankful for the assistance I had in getting through the long day. From an extra set of eyes to a voice of calm and assurance, and the kindness of strangers, everything came together to allow things to work. This was never about my confidence! Getting through the day was the result of being willing to let others help, accepting the goodness of the gifts received, and letting go of what one could not control. It was a reminder of how vulnerable one is in every moment in life.
Destinations are more than markets of success. Travelling from one point to another offers experiences that, in turn, bring new insights and opportunities to learn. I start a new day filled with thankfulness. I am alive! I hold new experiences that offer treasures that I can use in my work to become a better man. I can put these to use.
