Turns

Turning points are odd animals.  We rarely anticipate them, there is often little notice, and yet they are definite marks we rarely forget.  It is as if something happened in an instant to change everything we know.  From my vantage point it almost seems as if there is a driving decision to ignore changes in our lives with an embedded assumption that we will rely on the random turning points of our lives to determine the destination of our future. 
 
Many in now in the middle of a life turn.  A friend sold his business and is, in a real sense, starting over.  Everything is new.  Nothing is similar to what he has experienced at so far in the course of his life.  Another just had knee surgery.  While I can provide some clues as to all the changes that will follow the only thing I know for certain is that this single event is a significant turn in his life.  Others are facing body blows, injustice, and extreme degrees of uncertainty, all potent life turning points. 
 
I worry about turns.  I am not sure I realize the risk inherent in simple, small, and frequently considered trivial decisions.  Obvious logic can steer individuals and even nations in the wrong direction.  As one group of people discussed a wonderful miracle the harsh reality is the results of their casual, cynical yet oh so real, conversation ended up where “from that day on, they plotted to kill him [Jesus].”  (John 11.53)  Am I playing with the same type of fire? 
 
Life appears to be conspiring to give us more turns.  There is far too much going to possibly comprehend it all.  Information oozes at every corner.  The frantic lifestyle of yesterday is today’s norm.  Rather than fear the turns in our lives, one might consider every decision as an opportunity.  Imagine embracing compassion, love, and grace with a cup of coffee, smile to the stranger on the street, and response to anger.  Every thing and anything can be an opportunity in turning towards the values we hold dear.