Our conversation was heating up, in a good way. We were throwing different ideas out, letting our individual experiences mix in the knowledge that together we would see things that we could not by ourselves. As we began to explore the strengths hidden in the organization, a name came up that I have not heard in a business conversation for several years.
For me, everything stopped. Could it be the same individual? It must be, but could it really be true? I threw out an interrupting question and received the confirmation I was looking for.
We had not worked together for eight years. Our paths had come together over a decade ago. For a brief time we walked together. We parted and remained friends, even as our choices took us to very different parts of the world. In a twist of circumstances, the conversations meant that there was a chance that we would again be working together.
It was the same only it was different. In our last joint efforts, circumstances came to a point that I knew that it was time for me to go. I am not the first to come to this realization. I also will not be the last. In centuries past, after everything “had come to a head, Paul decided it was time to move on to Macedonia and Achaia provinces, and from there to Jerusalem. ‘Then,’ he said, ‘I’m off to Rome. I’ve got to see Rome!’” (Acts 19.21) It was a destination, but I knew then I had to leave. It was time.
A lot has happened in the years in between. Kids had grown into adulthood. Relationships have come, blossomed, and changed. I know we are very different than we were. I also know that the core remains.
A break presented itself. There was enough time to use my mobile.
“Congratulations on your new role.”
“How did you know?”
“I just had a meeting with your boss’ boss.”
“Wow, really?”
“Yes, you never know.”
“This is amazing. I always know we would get together again. Fantastic.”
