Those who become the best at what they do in any field are by the nature of “being the best” intense people. When I look at great success models one of the characteristics that transcends who they are is the consistent time and thought that they put into their area of specialty. I look at a particular sport that I enjoy and ask myself the obvious question. Am I willing to spend eight hours a day practicing, six and seven days a week, for the next ten, fifteen, or twenty years? I glance at a musician at the peak of their abilities and a variation of the question is already forming. I reflect on a businessman and the same family question forms. Then I realize that this is exactly what I have done to make it to where I am in my career.
In contrast my dedication and that of others is dwarfed by the level of dedication given by many mothers. There is no immediate payback for most. The reward often seems distant, out of reach, and illusive. For all the praise that one might give them, for most, they would gladly let this cup pass on to another if it was possible. Yet it isn’t, so “she keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive.” (Proverbs 31.27)
It has been in their dedication that I have become who I am. I long to find the way to compliment each as an individual without using the terms rock, always present, and eternally nurturing. It seems that this is a role to which they have been called. They have responded with an intensity and focus that defies all logic. For each compliment I see a slight smile and then a comment, “I rather use some help.”
The link to the Divine is strong. God responded to the human situation not because of a request; rather it was all due to whom and what makes up the Divine’s Soul. God intensity and focus is our gateway to winning real life.
