The telephone calls ended without notice. The emails went into the black hole of the web without a response. If was as if I had offended a corporation and all its members! There was one exception. Early in the process I met an older executive that was a consummate professional. In my notes, I reminded myself that he “could be a valuable partner, willing to share advice and guidance if I paid due respect. He deserves it and more.” While others went silent, he acknowledged the conversation.
After more than nine months of silence, an email showed up unexpectedly in my mailbox. “We are wondering if you are available to talk with us.”
There was no notice, no background, and limited insight. I reflected on their single question. Was I willing to talk?
As we talked, the flood of yesterday’s meetings, conversations, and sense of belonging flooded me as if it was last week. When the conversation moved to the future and what might be, I could not help myself. Did I do something? The answer came without hesitation; it was not you. The silence was our fault. Our world was turned upside down by circumstances and we were consumed with survival. We should have let you know. We hope you are interested in a fresh conversation.
I was looking at my reflection in the glass when I heard the statement said as if it was a question. “Your slate is clean with me. I have had times when I wanted to respond but did not know what to say given other events. Yes, let’s talk.”
I remember an extended period of silence when I struggled to talk with anyone, God included. When I turned to God, I asked if She was willing to talk. I explained that events had overwhelmed me. I acknowledged that I wished I had handled things differently.
God’s responded with a reminder that I was always welcome. I am part of God’s family. With family, “God’s grace and order wins; godlessness loses.” (Psalm 10.16) A new chapter began and is beginning.
