I enjoy coaching. Something magical and mysterious happens within me during the process. It is as if the process of helping a client see what s/he otherwise had not been able to see gives birth to energizing joy within me. Discussions that are dialogues reinforce the belief that Hope is alive although it can be difficult to see through the always-present chaos and pain.
As I reflect of the coaching discussions and what follows, I find myself focusing on a piece of advice. Paraphrasing his words to form a mantra I keep coming back to; “Always leave a client with a sense of undiscovered possibilities to come.”
In my application of this in a coaching context, I have two questions that keep recurring with minor variations followed with a suggestion. “What comes next? In the moment at hand, what changes? In the days to come, what is the plan?”
As we talk about actions, disciplines, and possible approaches in moving towards her/his goals, my suggestions boils down to “Be intentional. Take time to reflect, to understand (past), absorb (present), and learn (future).”
As I reflect on their journeys as well as my own, I realize there is an additional piece in my journey that I think can be incorporated in my suggestion. Take time to reflect and celebrate! Even in the worst of times, there is beauty around me. Even when it is dark outside and in my mind, I know Compassion and Mercy are alive. On my best days I never stop at the realization. I celebrate. I embrace the Psalmist’s advice with “a song to our strong God! a shout to the God of Jacob!” (Psalm 81.1) Celebrating takes the reality of reflection from my mind to my heart. Celebrating changes everything.
The days ahead are not going to be any easier than the days past. Uncertainties and the reality of Evil are overwhelming. I cannot think of a better time to celebrate Hope, Love, and Possibilities. Celebrations are invitations to the three; “Come, join the battle. We can and will make a difference.”
