As I shared comfort food with an old friend, an observation in the present took us to a common point when we were much younger. The irony of the black and white of days gone by versus the endless shades of grey today lingered in our conversation. We were so clear in our views on right and wrong, truth and confusion. In our prime we echoed the psalmist’s observation; “Like a warrior’s fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth.” (Psalm 127.4)
The tips of the arrows slung in those days may appear to the casual observer as having lost their edge. I note that they maty be a step slower, however, they are just as deadly today as they ever were! The lessons between then and now are ones which I wish I knew when I was the tip.
As effective as a single arrow is, when it is delivered as part of a broad salvo, the collective effectiveness dwarfs anything a single arrow might do. While one does not always have a choice, the preferred option is to be part of a collaborative barrage.
One arrow can be caught in the currents of the wind. When combined, the collective force becomes a current of its own with strength, resilience, and momentum.
Every tip believes they are sharp. As convicted as one might be, it is only because there is little honest comparison to other arrows. Being sharpened together brings a disciplined expertise to the edges and points. What may have been good earlier is not potentially great!
Excited and passionate arrows risk being delivered at the wrong time and a place where they are not effective when they are not coordinated with others. Knowing the target and what may influence the path is always helpful. Being able to see clearly, which may require the vision of others, is always good.
As the lessons of faded battles linger, one enjoys the youthful energy while hoping for wisdom. I look to older veterans, realizing they are hopeful for me. Today is another tipping point.
