Potential

Potential


10x20in.
acrylic on wrapped canvas


Potential is about a moment.

It's about a moment of disconnect due to frustration, disappointment, discomfort, indifference, judgement, hurt, misunderstanding, impatience or anger. (All too easy to make that list!)
What will happen next?

It's about that very same moment and it's potential for grace.
What will happen next?

There is potential in each human interaction and the relationship that exists after that. Physically, emotionally, spiritually, verbally, financially - we can keep our backs to each other.
OR we can turn toward one another. There is the opportunity to connect, disconnect, or to re-connect. At the risk of sounding cliche: I can extend myself or walk on by. I can build a bridge or a wall.

From the not-so-helpful cashier at the store, to the homeless person I pass on the street, to my husband and children, to my community, country, world - the opportunities to respond are endless...and sometimes overwhelming!

The Bible exhorts us to: "Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love." (Ephesians 4:2)  We are reminded to "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31) and to "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)

Failure, fatigue, risk and vulnerability come to mind as I count the cost of relationship.

So I invite God into the process.
(The glow and the circle in the background of the painting
represent the Holy Spirit's Presence and Power.)

"Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

When I choose to invite God into the process, something changes.

I lay down my agenda to enjoy connecting. I step out of my comfort zone to introduce myself. I step forward into the relationship instead of retreating. I give the benefit of the doubt. I extend the invitation. I speak words of encouragement instead of criticism. I apologize. I give without passing judgment. I wait without anxiety. I offer a smile instead of a heavy brow. I decide to try again. I step out of my norm, and benefit from connecting with someone who is different than me. I risk. I try to understand instead of holding my hurt. I let go and forgive. I think of a new way to handle a situation. I speak up instead of choosing quiet resentment. I decide not to accept feelings of rejection. I zip my lips. I see things from a different perspective. 
I experience freedom.

I cannot control what happens next.

There is Potential.



* I started writing this post over a week ago - and I just couldn't press the 'Publish' button. It seems that many 'Potential' kinds of moments have come my way. Or could it be that my focus on 'Potential', and the musings surrounding my painting of it, have highlighted the kinds of relational opportunities that are always present?

I would love to read your thoughts and comments.

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