The current model for a conceptual idea has had so many variations that I have lost track of the version number. Initially I thought two digits were plenty. Then I moved to a combination of letters and numbers. At this point, I have given up on trying to keep track of the variations. Instead, I include the date within the title and ignore the multiple variations that may have occurred between the start and close of business.
As I think of the work that has gone into each iteration, I am amazed at how much reflection, editing, and creative effort is required to take the last version along with feedback and reactions to a new level. One might think that one could have skipped many if not all the variations. Even in reflection, I am not sure that this is true! What I do find consistent is the lessons that come along with each.
As good as every version was and is, I have come to realize it can be better! Better in this case is defined by audience ease in understanding, simplicity of message, and flexibility in how one uses it to respond to questions from different perspectives.
If one wants to progress one must be willing to discard and move on from great work. As good as each version was and is, unless one is willing to tear it, a metaphoric action of “wasted their vines and fig trees, [and] smashed their groves of trees to splinters,” (Psalm 105.33) one will likely squander the opportunity to create something better.
Keeping an open, dare I say humble mind, allows great ideas to make a very good idea even better. Casual observations, simple ideas, and whimsical observations can lead one to an unseen creative opportunity. Nobody has a lock on how to make something better.
The model is in much better shape than it was. I wonder what comes next. Who will add the next thread of inspiration? Will I hear it? I am on alert. It could come from any direction. Hope is like that.
