Push versus Pull

For most of my life, I have been pushy.  My enthusiasm for new ideas led me to push for change.  My love of beauty encouraged me to push my way into relationships.  My joy and happiness for a particular way of thinking and doing became a catalyst in pushing and river for a new way of being.  With the benefit of many miles, some high peaks and incredible valleys, I find myself increasingly walking a path, willing to let the needs, challenges, and hopes of others pull me into sharing and change.
I realize that this may sound complex, yet that is not my intent.
I am a big believer in looking for new ideas and opportunities.  I love being in the presence of beauty and awe.  I think they are the greatest gift God, the world around us, and those that are creative can give to those who are on the journey.  Success is a wonderful experience; I often wonder why it takes so much effort to share success with others.
Yet, and it is a big, brutal, and adamant “but”, change rarely occurs unless the person and institution that will make the change is interested in the being different.  If he or she likes the status quo, there is little chance of success.  If he or she is happy with the way life is, there is little motivation to be different.  Even if it is right, better, or profitable, unless there is a desire, need, or a compelling emotion, nothing is going to change.
Many have caught onto this fact before me.  Phillip for example waited until the time was right.  Then, “Philip grabbed his chance.  Using this passage as his text, he preached Jesus to him.”  (Acts 8.35)  No matter how right he was he was smart enough to wait.
When there is a pull, dialogue follows.  When someone asks for help, they are interested in the story that follows.  If there is a recognized need, in receiving a request one often discovers that they have a priceless gift – trust.