It was the end of the week and my last dinner with new colleagues. During the evening I found myself looking back as well as forward. In the darkness and unknowns of this reflection, I found myself represented by a small bowl of soya sauce. It represented dark unknowns, freedom in the light shining through the darkness, and accountability for the choices that followed. What followed would be shaped by the chef and the table’s choices on the night. The result would be my own. At the centre are the realities. My choice would determine which dish was chosen. How I used the soya reflected my collaboration with the chef. Whatever the result ended up being, the final responsibility would be with me.
As dark as it may seem, there is available light. I was in a safe space, surrounded by individuals who wanted the best for me. In this space of safety, I had guides to answer my questions. I knew they were guardians, freely protecting me as their guest. In the unknown and darkness, there was light. As I adjusted my vision and thinking, I found myself out in the open with freedom, choice, and beauty.
in the light, possibilities grow. With candles, torches all around, and more, in the darkness, I could see much more than I imagined. Something had happened, within and without. The scene had been prepared in advance, ready for our seating. In embracing what others had done for us, I discovered my opportunity to enjoy great food and even better conversations. My understanding of Paul’s words took on a new perspective; “So, my friends, this is something like what has taken place with you. When Christ died he took that entire rule-dominated way of life down with him and left it in the tomb, leaving you free to “marry” a resurrection life and bear “offspring” of faith for God.” (Romans 7.4)
All that remained was to enjoy the food and friendship. Life is for living. I laughed, reflected, and found renewed freedom and hope in the darkness.
