I can still remember several instances where I was told to suck it up, see reality around me, and get on with life. The most intense memories have no strong emotions attached to them. To the contrary; the pivot moments have a place in my mind where facts, truths, and black and white realities reside. As I recounted one recently, I realized that I accepted the conversation as truth.
While I am still convinced that the insights shared by others were truthfully accurate, my response to each was often less than ideal! I took something given with the best of intentions by another and responded to it without questioning myself. In an early one, there are four plus decades of living with a mantra embraced without a second thought or question.
Yesterday I was asked to share part of the stories behind the lessons that emerged. As I began the process of introducing another to them, I found myself holding onto three points.
Always start with a premise that others can help. The starting point is a lot like one’s thirst; never wait until you are thirsty to take some water! Instead of finding one’s self in trouble and “then I called out to God for help: ‘Please, God!’ I cried out. ‘Save my life!’” (Psalm 116.4) Stark with God and Goodness at one’s side.
See to understand before going into action. There are many manifestations of this mantra; listening, quietness, and observing with the intention of seeing fully and deeply are the beginning. Dialogue, awareness, and the realization that there is always more is a great foundation to begin framing out choices and alternatives.
Life is a process with a series of steps, not a destination. There is little point of trying to understand the specifics of our aspirations. Life is full of surprises, often giving us far more than we ever imagined possible! It is in the present that we embrace the possibility of more. It is where we find relief and courage to step out in faith that we reach beyond our dreams.
