There is a control box in the shop. It is supposed to manage the eight dust collector outlets that are spread around the work area. On the face of the box, one can look and press any one of a dozen small buttons. In response to pushing the buttons, the lights blink, change colors, and something happens.
I have no idea how the box is wired inside. I have read the instruction manual. I willingly confess that I am no more informed after reading than I was before. I find myself confused. I do know one thing. What I think is happening is not always what is happening.
If you were to ask me about the box, the lights, and what is going on, my comments would include the following. Events have a way of confusing even the informed. What often appears to be a solution may not be. If it seems to be too good, it probably is. The message one receives may not be the real message.
I am not the first to go through this experience. “At daybreak, the court judges sent officers with the instructions, ‘Release these men.’ The jailer gave Paul the message, ‘The judges sent word that you’re free to go on your way. Congratulations! Go in peace!’” (Acts 16.35, 36) It might seem like good news, but was it?
With my control box, I find that a simple approach is slowly unlocking the puzzle.
If there is a small problem that you can do something about, take the step. It will help.
When you are confused, stepping back and reflecting is more important than taking action.
Patience can unlock understanding. This is especially true if one is willing to carefully observe.
I am still discovering how the control box works. I do know that it is working better than it was. Dust is being collected. Progress is measurable. I understand more than I did.
I wonder what will happen if I take this approach to the day before me. I will not solve everything. I can make a difference.
