The challenge with taking on something new is always messy. Where do you start? What is the best way to tackling the next few steps? Who are my go-to points of coaching and advice? If the community is new, the questions and uncertainty become significantly greater. In my experience, only hindsight will provide a clear vision. For now, everything will be blurred and partially obscured.
As I take on a new challenge I find myself going back to some lessons Life has left with me.
Trust those that you trust. In uncertain times, those that have been trustworthy will continue to be so. The dark side of life leaves doubt and uncertainty whispers all around me, encouraging me to pick them up with a warm embrace. Old words of advice by someone uncertain still ring true; “What I do, God, is wait for you, wait for my Lord, my God – you will answer!” (Psalm 38.15)
Look for truth whispers. Good ideas may come from new sources. Be open to them. Look for them. Divinity has an amazing way of providing when we need it most. I often anticipate the darkness and look for its confirmation. Trust that light will come when it is needed is hard but it is a good idea.
Act, reflect, learn, and act again. Just because the way forward is uncertain, confusing, and messy, it does not mean that we cannot take action. Experience reminds me that acting with positive intent, reflecting on the outcomes and reactions of the new community, learning from what is there is a process that can be repeated with each day. We have an open invitation to step into the process of growth. The door is here, waiting for our choice that comes with the freedom we have within us.
I can see literally see clouds gathering outside. I know a storm is brewing. I can hear the thunder, its close and metaphoric. Today represents a challenge and an opportunity. We can retreat or advance. For me, my heart and mind are one; seize the day!
