Understanding the Importance

A number of years ago I worked for a woman who was very contemplative and wise. This was at a time when I was neither.

I worked for her for about a year or so, then moved on to another department, trying to figure out what I wanted to do when I grew up.

We would get together for lunch on occasion and one day I was lamenting the fact that the new department had brought me no nearer to where I wanted to go (even though I didn’t exactly know where that was).

She sat back quietly thinking for a moment and said, “Never underestimate the importance of being right where you are.”

I sat there stunned for a moment, overwhelmed by the wisdom that she had so simply spoken.

She went on to say that even if I didn’t know where I was going at the time, there were other things that were also important – the way you interact with other people, treating them with kindness, respect, and sharing a good sense of humor, as well as just being you…sharing the vibrancy of your spirit with others.

In other words, giving of yourself. And not just being consumed with getting where you’re going.

I’ve thought about that conversation many, many times over the years as I’ve walked an often-winding path in my life and found my friend’s wisdom to be true.

Eventually you get where you’re going, one way or another. But it’s so much better when your share some warmth and joy with others along the way.

Understand the importance of being right where you are.