The “know Bill” range of the people I work with is months to decades. I caught myself musing how many have changed in the time that I have known them. For most, the change is positive! Their behavior reflects the maturity that only comes with experience. Patience, teamwork, and compassion play a greater role in their lives. Each unique combination of characteristics, values, and priorities remains the same yet somehow more.
It is something I hope to find in everyone I meet, including myself. I know the change is not universal; there are too many examples of those that seem to stagnate. I often wonder what makes the difference. I have come to believe that in each, God is the difference. While they call their form of Divinity by many different names, those that change for the better are shapes by Hope and Compassion.
I found myself passing out complements last night. It was a good experience! I could remember. I talked about the change and its impact on those that are being touched. It is a story that never gets old. People growing. People changing. People embracing More in their lives.
I realize it is an opportunity that is available to all, including you and me. We can and are changing. An old story telling reminded his audience of what is underway. “A number of you know from experience what I’m talking about, for not so long ago you were on that list. Since then, you’ve been cleaned up and given a fresh start by Jesus, our Master, our Messiah, and by our God present in us, the Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 6.11)
Having seen it in others, I find myself looking for it in myself. I realize that I have more control than I am aware of. Circumstances do not bind me, I can choose. Life is not defined by a wall but by a window. Who and what I am is an outcome of the way I exercise freedom. Whatever yesterday was, today can be more. It is an fresh opportunity in each moment.
