The bottle of hot red sauce sitting on the table was direct and to the point. The label and unique proposition were one and the same. Three ingredients, nothing else. No flavour enhancers. No artificial colourings. You knew what you were going to get before you tasted the sauce. Direct, simple, and transparent.
I nursed my coffee and wondered. What would I be like if I was three simple ingredients?
As I continue to think about this as today begins, I find myself moving beyond my fears, uncertainties, and doubts. I understand that this approach would make me vulnerable to the barbs and criticisms of others. Intuitively, I think others would use this to take advantage of me. Knowing what I know, well-founded fear resists and challenges the idea of being fully transparent. In this awareness, there is a longing to live a life of simplicity, purpose, and transparency.
My words, actions, and expressions of my heart reveal who I am. Every life’s story is told that way, “which is why there is nothing in Jesus’ family tree connecting him with that [Jewish] priestly line.” (Hebrews 7.14) This revelation is most important to my mind and soul. I would like to believe I am close to my aspirations. In truth, I am human, prone to failure, and at times tormented by darkness. When I see myself with truth, I open a door to becoming a better individual.
In being direct, I consciously choose to express the values I hold closest to my heart. Being direct can be heard as a warning that the words and actions will come without emotion. There is an alternative. One can be direct and caring. One can be direct and empathetic. One can be direct and compassionately kind. Imagine a world with unfiltered love applied to every moment. The steps to a better future are found on this direct path.
Imagine a world where agendas were open, clear, and transparent. The ambiguity of intent disappears. The knowledge of acceptance is irrevocable.
Three ingredients to better living. Today, I get to serve.
