In the area where one crosses from the Dubai Emirate to the Abu Dhabi Emirate, there was once a covid-19 checkpoint. While a small part remains, the four lanes which mark the main expressway have been partially restored to the original state. What remains are the rumble strips which used to remind drivers it was time to slow down. They last just long enough to become annoying, making the fresh smooth tarmac which follows seem extra smooth and oh so quiet. With the daily drive, I am reminded of life lessons easily forgotten.
Turbulent times in life rarely end like you think they will. Medical issues may trigger unrelated healing somewhere else in your life, good news may be seen with hindsight as leading indicators of future problems, and stress may be just what it is, stress. The lesson reminder is, for me, one of patience and endurance. It is hard to see the immediate in the context of the larger story. It is difficult to persevere when your heart and mind wants to take a break. Yet, there is a calling to respond to the relentless turbulence of life with care and kindness.
Turbulence rarely lasts for as long as one initially thinks it will. Two consistencies in my life play out; I see turbulence differently when I view it through another’s eyes. Additionally, although it seems like it will last forever, it often turns out to be a much shorter period than one initially expected.
Turbulence does not have to last long to trigger a fundamental shift. It is not about the duration or magnitude, though each plays a role. It is about how it touches one’s life and challenges one’s grasp on hope.
When I consider the clash of musical instruments, I think of turbulence and yet they can be instruments of celebration. The psalmist calls out to “praise him with cymbals and a big bass drum, praise him with fiddles and mandolin.” (Psalm 150.5) Using the turbulence in one’s life for good and celebration is a high calling. Today is an opportunity.
