It started so innocently.
“What are you doing… I could use some help.”
As I considered my response, I realized I was in the process of opening a metaphorical Pandora’s box. There will little to no chance that this was going to be “some” help if I thought some was translated as little. The work involved was easily overwhelming! Even if there was a team filled of individuals with the mindset, tools, and experience the help would be measured in man days not hours! As I considered who I could enlist along side myself, my mind drew a blank. I could think of many who might watch, but few with the disposition, willingness, and ability to act. There were many coming to mind who would fit the old way of describing a friend who is not only less than helpful, actually ends up making things more difficult; “you opposed him in battle, refused to fight on his side.” (Psalm 89.43)
“Sure, I can be there around 1 if that works.”
As the day approach my mind resigned itself to a long, hard, and discouraging because of the work I knew would remain undone. As as I arrived with a bag of tools and a willingness to do what I could, I never imagined followed.
“Hi guys, ready to work?”
A welcome addition to the challenge arrived to my surprise. What followed was an amazing experience of hyper collaboration and teamwork mixed with great conversation. While we did not get everything done in the 7+ hours that followed, we made a massive dent on the work at hand!
I look realizing that going into battle with others is easier, especially when you trust and enjoy the person at your side. One’s sense of the possible doubles and triples as hands, voices, and spirit worked in harmony. The give and take of different approaches produced something greater than either imagined.
I left with a renewed sense of belonging and purpose. There is so much that we can do together. The best in others can bring out our best.
