I catch myself thinking linearly more often than I willingly admit. Even as I am frustrated by the limited sight lines and thinking that goes along with it in others, I realize I am not that different. On reflection, it seems that my linear framework is shaped by natural bias and the need for certainty. When the real world with its twists and turns meets my imaginary future, nothing seems to fit or sync.
Reminders challenge me to relax the constraints on how I look at the present and anticipate what comes next. While life keeps surprising me with new twists, the recurring reminders that I find with me include the following.
Change is increasingly relentless. Even though there are occasions where one anticipated the rate or direction, frequently it is a surprise. The easy part of it all that I forget is that change is the constant. I should expect things to be different than what I imagine. Different alternatives and choices, different competitors, and most importantly, different ways of seeing whatever I happen to be looking at.
Living is the present is essential. As adaptable as I would like to think I am, reality often bites. Once the unimagined happens, it is part of the present. Metaphorically, whatever one expected or did not, when “Israel entered Egypt, Jacob immigrated to the Land of Ham,” (Psalm 105.23) one deals with it as it is.
Being alert for unexpected is a useful posture. At times the unexpected is an opportunity that can be embraced to move faster and more effectively towards one’s goals. In every event, looking for what cannot be seen at the moment creates an opportunity to see farther and deeper.
Even as I write, I can hear the voice of a wise friend, “Rest up when you can. It is going to get crazy. When it does, you will need every bit of energy and strength you can find to deal with what is happening.”
The road ahead will have unique twists and turns. It can also be fun and rewarding.
