Starting a new job is always a fun, stressful, and a puzzling adventure.
First, every group of three or more people has strengths and weaknesses. I have yet to find anyone that is as strong or weak as they think they are. Coming in from the outside with a strong intent on adding value to the team presents a unique opportunity. The people you work with know that you see everything differently. If they have confidence, and here they do, they are looking for you to make suggestions, add your observations, and push the group towards something greater than what they were before you got there. There is one hesitation we all carry with us. It is the wonder and doubt of our views. Are we seeing things correctly? Will I actually add value? Can I really do something?
I have been asking these questions all week. I keep thinking that I am missing something. I am sure that there is yet another surprise around the corner! I am positive that the team cannot be this blind.
I am confident that I am missing something, however this does not change the opportunity. I am excited, waiting eagerly for the surprise the will come; yet, this cannot prevent me from moving quickly now. I see that the team is no blinder, and at the same time no more insightful, than I am in my own journey.
“She’s [Madame Insight] taken her stand at First and Main, at the busiest intersection. Right in the city square where the traffic is thickest, she shouts, ‘You – I’m talking to all of your, everyone out here on the streets!’” (Proverbs 8.2,3,4)
I met Madame Insight over breakfast yesterday. At first, I did not recognize the voice; I was clearly caught in the moment. As the morning progressed, especially as I walked out into the mid-day sunshine alone, I knew I had heard God’s whisper in and among the chatter.
In the middle of life God waits; he is ready and eager to be part of our journey. Be alert!
