I am in the center of a long-term transformation initiative. We are still closer to the beginning than we are the middle or the end. There are some that think the journey may not complete. A few think it was a mistake to start. In both camps, you can feel a passive resistance to change. It is as if they want to hold onto the old fearing the new may not be the answer. If you observe carefully, you can catch the quick looks over their shoulders to see who is watching. If they think they are unobserved, their behavior shifts.
It is interesting to watch others when they think they are operating under the radar. Behaviors shift. Attitude morphs. It is as if a different person emerges! Recent articles in the newspaper remind readers that CCTV cameras, mobile phones, and even the toll devices in our vehicles open the door to being observed by others.
The approach many, myself included, have spiritually reflects the same level of naivety. I find myself acting as if nobody is watching, not even myself. David reminds me that “God hasn’t moved to the mountains; his holy address hasn’t changed. He’s in charge, as always, his eyes taking everything in, his eyelids unblinking, examining Adam’s unruly brood inside and out, not missing a thing.” (Psalm 11.4) God knows. I know. We both know and the knowledge makes a difference.
It is easy to think that an awareness of somebody watching would change one’s behavior. It may, on an occasion or two. I find that arrogance and the desire to indulge trumps one’s fears. In short, over time we do what we want to do. There is an interesting opportunity buried in our actions. We can feel guilty and remorseful about yesterday’s choices. Or (perhaps and) we can learn what our actions tell us. With this knowledge, we can work to change the true values within our hearts.
Today is an opportunity to reach for my best aspirations. I can use every tool available, including yesterday’s choices. Moving opportunities all around.
