In my idle time I am working to progress three start-up ideas. Two are ones that started with a personal observation of a problem. The other is the brainchild of a friend. Depending on how early in the idea creation it is, one’s roles jumps between evangelist, teacher, designer, strategist and building. In contrast to many corporate environments with individuals that can only do what they think they will be rewarded to do, I have little choice. If I do not embrace the role, nothing happens! Completion of the task is totally dependent on my willingness to take on the work.
One of the qualities I love with P.G. Wodehouse’s character Jeeves is Jeeves humble willingness to do whatever is required in the service for his boss Bernie Wooster. There is a line that Jeeves walks where service demands are balanced by doing what is best for Wooster. The humor and beauty of the show is that the audience is privy to how ridiculous Wooster can be. Foolishness and efforts to protect his vanity are on full display! In Jeeves willingness to serve with compassion and care, we have a model that we would do well to consider.
I find myself struggling with lost opportunities. It appears that the primary reason for what appears to be a squandered window is another’s inability to do something beyond their normal remit. Individuals had the skill within them. Although they may not have seen how they could help, it does not seem that they were looking. In several cases it appears they were focused on other issues. One way to describe the area of their attention is to quote an old writer; “All you mountains not chosen, sulk now, and feel sorry for yourselves, for this is the mountain God has chosen to live on; he’ll rule from this mountain forever.” (Psalm 68.16)
To each as well as to myself I would offer a simple reminder. We are part of a bigger story. Our calling is to make a difference. Everyone contributes to the price paid for action untaken.
