Unexpected

There is a paradox in the big cities.  Institutions are rarely revered.  It doesn’t matter what type of institution – banks, brokers, law partnerships, accountants, and even churches are objects of disrespect.  One can leap to their defense, yet in our heart of hearts we know the criticism’s truth.  There are plenty of reasons and examples which fall short of any ideal.  At best these are institutions filled with people who are weak, mistake prone, and ego centric.  The combination is deadly!  There is little chance of anyone who is close to the firm actually seeing and believing.
 
In this context we often find ourselves out telling others about our strengths, abilities, and potential.  We believe we are strong in our weakness.  We believe we are committed, even as we forget yesterday’s promises.  We believe, almost in spite of the evidence. 
 
I find myself on both sides of the void.  On one hand I believe in the firms I am involved with.  On the other hand, yesterday’s firms have failed to live up to their promises yet again.  Is the present any different than the past?  Am I merely walking in today’s mirage?
 
There is a difference.  The model for what can change was laid out centuries ago.  “On that Day, more than one city in Egypt will learn to speak the language of faith and promise to follow God-of-the-Angel-Armies. One of these cities will be honored with the title ‘City of the Sun’.  On that Day, there will be a place of worship to God in the center of Egypt and a monument to God at its border.  It will show how the God-of-the-Angel-Armies has helped the Egyptians.  When they cry out in prayer to God because of oppressors, he'll send them help, a savior who will keep them safe and take care of them.”  (Isaiah 19.18-20)  
 
The difference lies in open, honest, action.  I can show my motives by what I choose to do.  I can present my values by my actions.  I can engage and live my heart in the community.  Nobody expects this.