Shifts in direction usually come when we least expect it. We stick to the same pattern for years or even decades; then, one small event will trigger a new life direction. Rarely are the events that trigger the change extraordinary in and of themselves; but the shift that occurs is truly profound. It is almost impossible to anticipate the singular experience but the areas for change are staring us in the face every day!
I knew a corporate manager for a long time. He approached work principled and driven. It was easy to anticipate his actions because he clearly wanted to win the climb on the corporate ladder. There were, as with many others of his age and time, weaknesses in his character but few bothered to take much note. As the pressure grew so did his response to the opportunity. With new obstacles the creative energy blossomed. People naturally gravitated to his ideas but they would often, especially with hindsight, talk of uneasiness for reasons they could not explain.
A recruitment drive was going well. Several promising candidates were on the schedule for their final interview. As the manager took stock one candidate fit every qualification and then some. Additionally the candidate was desperate and it showed. Little did anyone know that a decision to exploit the situation taken in that moment, just a few seconds, would become a turning point for everyone involved with an incredible price. It was a time of celebration; it would be months before the lesson became reality.
Ten months later the exploitation of the moment was a haunting stone carried by one. The price came early Saturday morning with a call. Jim is gone, his heart failed. The pressure of the day to day grind, built on the exploitation of a moment that continued, extracted a price.
I wonder if I see what is going on around me. “Who knows? Maybe he'll do it now, maybe he'll turn around and show pity. Maybe, when all's said and done, there'll be blessings full and robust for your God!” (Joel 2.14)
