It is fun to be part of a big wedding celebration. On a day filled with surprises, locally as well as around the world, the biggest surprise has been the resiliency and strength of a few individuals at the heart of it all. It is as if they are on “the” mission of their life. Nothing is going to deter them, nothing will impede their ability to deliver their part when it is needed. In other words, “no enemy will get the best of him, no scoundrel will do him in.” (Psalm 89.22)
The challenges were there. Temptations to indulge in excess pre-celebrations. Dramas when individuals who were expected to be somewhere were anywhere but. Shortages, voids, and differences kept coming from places least expected. While it came from a minority of the larger group, the drama was overwhelming at times.
As I think of the outcomes and the attitudes I witnessed, I find myself filled with hope. Takeaways for the future include the following.
Staying focused on the goal and the larger story is always a priority. The easy and obvious path is to solve the immediate crisis. Staying true to the ultimate goal puts the immediate into focus and is a source of courage when one is tempted to give up or in.
Taking a deep breath is often the best immediate response. Pause, breath, and then consider reacting! There are more options than what immediately appears possible. Consider, search for more, then react.
If one is pushed to the edge, take a break. Go for a walk, catch some sleep, reload, and reset. The challenge will still be there, unless of course someone has helped sort and solve it while you were away.
Above all, stay focused on the goal. There is more at stake than the immediate crisis. In the bigger story, there are others to help, alternatives to be found, and solutions waiting to be embraced.
Being resilient has its own rewards. Hope lives within us. Happiness is something we can embrace. Our memories will focus on the best that follows.
