“Why are there 100 of these?”
It was the third time I have been asked a question laced in the negative. His note was puzzling.
“I am not sure where that number comes from. If you look at the workbook I forwarded in response to your last question, the answer is on the 2nd page. When I look, the number is 22.”
Silence. No response. No further questions. No clarification of the source or reason for the misinformation. Everything in me screams offense. I need to put these questions to rest. I have a great story to tell. There are facts available to anyone interested and willing to read. I regularly update the key stakeholders. Everyone can see what I can see when I see it.
As I act, the odd questions pop up here and there. Each tears at my story, challenging its authenticity and accuracy. It is as if evil is trying to prick my balloon.
This is a project with lots of winners. It is designed to recognize everyone along the path, advertising individual and collective contributions to the goal. Difficulties are presented as opportunities for others to help. Risks and problems are shared burdens everyone can help carry.
Yet the challengers lurk in the shadows, silent except for the doubting darts and disparaging arrows. To the uninformed, each causes a tears or rip in the fabric of what I am trying to do. If feels “like barbarians desecrating a shrine, they destroyed my reputation.” (Psalm 35.16)
I do not think what I am going through is unique. In a variety of ways, I see evil touching the lives around me. I find myself holding onto two mantras.
Evil touches everyone’s life. You and I are not singled out. We are touched because we are part of God’s family.
In each moment our response is wrapped in freedom. I can fight evil or respond with kindness and compassion. I can complain or reach out to those suffering more than I and offer love, empathy, and a prayer with action.
I want to help.
