Recently I was confronted with a harsh reality. As fact and truth based as everything was on the table, I did not think we were going to get to the right destination. For a time, measured in minutes and hours, I found myself wrestling with a depressing darkness. How could this be! Why did the facts fail me? How could the obvious not be, which in turn was leading us to the wrong destination?
The darkness began to disappear when I caught the irony in my conundrum. As I considered the situation, I realized that it was a familiar place. Usually, I am in the driver’s seat acting as blind as others were now. The presence of truth filled facts and data points did not mean that anyone should assume that we would get to the right destination. There is more to life than just facts, figures, and data. In any other language, life is a composition of actions, decisions, reactions, and choices. It is a process that calls for us to be engaged in the moment at hand.
Starting with myself, there are several reminders.
Facts matter. They set the foundation, help frame the view. The important thing to remember is that they are not the answer in themselves. What was does with them gives them relevance and meaning.
Misleading or incorrect facts will help take you in the wrong direction. It is important to be as accurate and truthful as you can be. Study, compare, and seek the wisdom views of those you trust.
Anticipate where the path you are on is leading. Being candid, not naïve, will lead to corrective action where needed. It is important to realize the truth based reality of the steps being taken. The reminder of old still rings true; “Pagan gods are mere tatters and rags. God made the heavens.” (Psalm 96.5) You can see the reality of this if you are open.
Live engage with a sense of humbleness and learning. The best and the brightest have lost their way. We all need all guidance.
