Volume XXI, Number 41 (Issue 1045) October 9, 2023
When The Search Stops
Ever misplace something? Car keys, a cell phone, a file you need, a credit card, and the TV remote are just a few of the examples that come quickly to mind. Each time that happens, our first instinct is to initiate a frantic, if not always methodical search of the usual places we think we could have laid whatever it is we now need. If the quest goes on long enough, some helpful soul is bound to suggest we “retrace our steps.” Whether they also jump into help is another matter. Inevitably, we do locate the missing item. It is at that point that we breathe a sigh of relief while quickly vowing to mend our ways. Of course, we don’t – never mind our assertions that we learn so much from our mistakes.
I won’t attempt to explain why we keep repeating the same errant behavior other than to suggest when our primary focus is elsewhere, it is our autopilot that takes over running the “less important” activities and functions. Inasmuch as those ancillary tasks receive less attention, we tend to make mistakes.
Such brief trials and minor tribulations are not my only point. In fact, I really want us to consider two related issues. First, how often do we permit important things – things like our mental and physical health, our relationships, and our interpersonal communication – to default to autopilot? Does that honestly make sense? Second, how often have you settled for good or acceptable rather than have the patience to wait for the best fit? Specifically, I am thinking about the hiring process. Have you ever been guilty of hiring an “acceptable” candidate rather than having the patience to look for the right applicant?
Doing the right things in the right way is what distinguishes the great from the good and also-rans. Which course will you choose?
Soli Deo Gloria?
“Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:8-10
J. Keith Hughey
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E-mail: keith@jkeithhughey.com
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Copyright 2023 by J. Keith Hughey. All rights reserved. Permission is hereby granted for reproduction and redistribution of this essay as provided under the copyright laws of the United States of America. The entire early library of Monday Morning Musings issues may be found at www.jkeithhughey.com. Your comments are welcome and encouraged.