Recently I experienced what every coach and mentor hopes for; seeing one you are working with discover and experience the truth with the teaching. The outcome is never about what the teacher has done. It is not about technique or abilities. S/he knows that the truth within the teaching is the source of what is on display.
In my journey, I find that one teaches and mentors because one is called. As important and vital as the truth might be, one on one teaching requires trust and patience by both parties. I have seen and experienced when both elements are not present. As hard as one side might push, the full experience is never possible. When both are present, an opportunity is born. In the recent example, I was not sure if the other trusted what I was sharing with him. When he came to give me an update, before he could open his mouth, I knew we were at a turning point.
Even as I enjoy replaying the scene in my head, reliving the emotions within that I could not control, I realize that the scene is an old one. Even though I tend to forget, I know it has occurred in my life before. In the moments where I see compassion realized because I choose what was right versus what was expedient, I realize that my trust in Divine principles deepen. When I see people change because they experienced mercy instead of justice, my belief in God’s approach grows stronger. As beauty and wonder overwhelm me as I watch a sunset or a incoming storm, I find myself thinking of an observation about David. “Is it any wonder the king loves God? That he’s sticking with the Best?” (Psalm 21.7)
In the week’s busyness, it would be natural to skip the singular moment where truth was validated. It would, except I know because of that moment I approached the rest of the week with Hope. I know the moment is not an end. It is the beginning of a new chapter filled with belief.
