The conversation was brief and dysfunction. Without context (something about being late), patience (using the last part of a sentence as representative for a presentation), observations were made with unanswerable questions. With his historical creditability, I listened in wonder. Was he trying to lift me up, shoot me down, and take us sideways? I wanted to assume the best, but it did not feel that way. I hoped that there was a destination that would be better for all, yet I was not sure.
As uncertainty swirled in the room, I knew I was losing my grip on the audience. The final trigger was his comment that I was “being defensive.” As the words faded to silence, I shifted into high listening mode. Everything said was followed by a deep focus, short notes, an echo to make sure I had heard correctly. Only then did I make an observation. Leading with questions instead of statements, I work to lift the group towards something better.
As I look back, I am still not sure. The evidence supporting down or at best sideways is fairly compelling. No follow-up conversations. Not one offer to help or even check in on progress. The engagement on the day has become a metaphorical rifle shot.
It is my hope that I never become that person. I can recall moments in the past where we could have been close cousins. With time and life’s teachings, I have come to appreciate those with an obvious agenda to reach higher and father. Even when we differ, I appreciate their motives! When I am in the presence of one starting with the positive, I find myself offering a blessing on their spirit and actions; “Blessed are the people who know the passwords of praise, who shout on parade in the bright presence of God.” (Psalm 89.15)
It is not always easy to find good in the less than ideal. Life encourages me to always look for it. When one finds it, celebrate! When experiences it, revel in the experience and look to repeat.
