The intensity grew and grew some more. Every fibre of my being was on high alert. With a resolve I have not felt in a long time, I would not miss a single nuance. It might sound like I was stressed. Of the many emotions flowing, stress was not part of them, at least in a negative way. There were early indications that this was going to be a memorable conversation. Midway through, the indications had morphed into confidence. By the time it wrapped up, I understood I had experienced ninety-plus minutes in a unique dialogue that I will remember as a unique series of moments.
Today’s dawn offers perspective and lesson reminders. I wonder how I can rinse and repeat these moments in other areas of my life. Life offers me whispers of awareness as guides in my response to what lies ahead.
Each participant brought a gift with them, their full and undivided attention. Visually and emotionally, it was a level playing field. My awareness at the start focused on the differences in power, wealth, and experience. Quietly, these differences left the space. Curiosity, empathy, and understanding rose and took their place. Each person leaned into the conversation without distraction and concern for where the story would end.
Everyone knew they had a role to play, and s/he played it well. One might think that egos needed to dominate. In contrast, the dominant character traits were listening and candour. Each moment built on the other, taking me on a journey from leading to participating and finally to listening with the intent of understanding.
The awareness of how special this had come early. I felt as though I was witnessing a historical event, where “Only the high priest entered the smaller, inside tent, and then only once a year, offering a blood sacrifice for his own sins and the people’s accumulated sins.” (Hebrews 9.7)
Today is a unique opportunity in which I play a role. It deserves my undivided attention and commitment. In my awareness of what it could be, I am all in.
