Yesterday’s schedule morphed from planned to impromptu adjustments as it unfolded. In the larger story, the right conversations were happening. In the details, I was hungry. When and where I could get a bite to eat was unknown. My choice was to arrive early for my 3 o’clock with the idea of a quick meal and preparation for the conversation to follow.
The Arabic-oriented menu had very few vegetarian options. Given the promise of good coffee and food had always been fulfilled in the past, I knew I had an opportunity to express trust. There was no need to hesitate or tiptoe through each dish trying to figure out if it would work. The whispers said I should abandon my shyness and go for what looked good.
Looking back, I did not appreciate the quality, wonderful mix of flavours, and how filling the meal could be. Accompanied by a wonderful lemonade that was soft and soothing (still not sure why), it was a meal I will not soon forget. Lessons that emerged as I enjoyed each bite included the following.
Fortune favours the bold. In trust and faith, I did not hesitate or look for alternative venues. It is a model established across time. I followed an old father’s example with Divinity, “He didn’t tiptoe around God’s promise asking cautiously skeptical questions. He plunged into the promise and came up strong, ready for God,” (Romans 4.20) and the result was a wonderful experience with food.
Uncertainty tells a story that seems believable but not yet true. In weighing my faith in a friend versus my fears and uncertainty, I choose to believe. The experience which followed my actions of faith reaffirmed the role trust plays in moving forward. How I exercise my freedom is more than the sum of my fears, uncertainties, and doubts. Freedom, hope, and love belong together.
When experience is willing to teach, be open and ready to understand and grow. The opportunities to grow can be found in each moment we have. What we do with the present is our freedom’s stage.
