We all know people who need to win at all costs. If playing by the rules does not get them to the right destination, they find new rules! For many, it is the destination that is crucial, not the journey. I am not so sure that they are ever different.
I caught a ride last night between two offices in Amsterdam. We were leaving towards the end of rush-hour and knew that getting to our destination on-time was not a given. I realized that the driver of the car had a different approach from the moment we got in.
First, check all mirrors, buckle the seatbelts, and make sure each occupant was comfortable.
Second, noticing that a colleague was backing out right behind, wait quietly and patiently while a very methodical person back, straightened, backed again, adjusted a rearview mirror, and then finally began the methodical process of exiting the parking lot.
By this time I would have, if I was the driver, already been several blocks down the road, however in this case we were still sitting, idling in the car which was in the original parking space for that day.
As we drove to the new office, I find myself watching this cycle repeat itself several times. Merging traffic was always given the right of way. Those traveling in an impatient hurry were allowed to continue unencumbered and without any external sign of comment; almost as if we were giving them a silent confirmation and blessing!
I did not feel it was appropriate to comment, it was as if I was in “driving” church; watching the angels take me for a spin. Winning was taking on a whole new light.
“Eventually, evil will pay tribute to good; the wicked will respect God-loyal people.” (Proverbs 14.19)
I could suggest that my self-god was vanquished. Unfortunately, I have not let go that easily. I do know that it is never the end, it is the process; it is the process that gets us to the end. The sooner we learn the sooner we live, really live.
