I have seen it in others, nurses coming off a 12 hours shift in the early morning hours, bankers struggling to walk to a coffee shop after a all night of working, and construction work after a day in the sun. In my case, it was an extended day of being the person questioned.
In others, it could be mental, physical, or a combination that hits them hard. Whatever it was, it shows! In my case, the need to be mentally alert for 9 hours took a toll on my body. I walked to the train unable to think clearly. I was thirsty but did not have the strength to buy a bottle of water. I knew I needed to find my train but I could not comprehend what I was reading on the information screen. In hindsight, I could have asked. At the time, the thought never occurred. I saw my station on a track sign and choose to wait. I knew I would make it.
The reception of friends, food, and easy conversation was the start of a rebirth. In letting go and moving on, I found myself in an embrace of compassion, kindness, and friendship. I crashed out early, waking this morning with a sense of hope and renewal. One writer noted that we are “now a part of his resurrection body, refreshed and sustained at one fountain—his Spirit—where we all come to drink.” (1 Corinthians 12.13a) Initially I was not sure what this meant. Life reminds me that I have experienced what being part of a divine community can do to your heart and soul.
Life is full of potholes and unexpected twists. While needing to deal with each, I can choose to define my life by more than these events. I can build on the rebirth opportunities to make a difference. It is an opportunity worthy of gods. It is also something you and I have in our hands everyday of our lives. The question is one of action. I am committed to doing something with what I have.
