I was over at my family's home, and my stepfather was running to the grocery store and asked if I wanted anything. I thought that making a lunch with light feta cheese, 2 bartlett pairs and spot of honey would be divine. So, listing light feta and the 2 bartletts (honey in house), he went on his way. He started feeling ill from a new medicine he is taking, so he shortened his trip at the store. I got the pear pair, but no feta! Well, now this couture lunch had become cockamamy. I decided to see what cheese was in the fridge. My mother had bags with crude names like "Taco Cheese," and "Mexican Cheese." Perfect for an easy addition to fajitas, but not a good match for my pear. Then I found a bag of shredded aged parmesan. Oui oui! It wasn't the norm, but why not try heating some parmesan over the well-chopped pear? What a delightful surprise! Yes, I'd still prefer the feta, but the parmesan added a different kick and was really enjoyable. I'd make it again!
What does this have to do with anything, you ask? Sometimes we clamor for the perfect accompaniment. In business, perhaps you think, "If I could add this person to my team, sales would soar," or "Getting XYZ Brand to Co-sponsor my fundraiser would add the right level of cache to escalate how consumers' view our company." With community it may read, "Sara knows so many people in our area, she would be so influential of ABC Charity's board of directors," or "Mitch is so handsome and charismatic, if we could convince him to speak at our fundraiser meeting, I know more people would be on board." With family our thoughts may say, "I know Angie wants to study violin but her chances for getting a scholarship are better if she sticks with volleyball," or "My husband has lost his mind! Why does he think it's a good idea to invite those neighbors over for dinner? Do you know what Mrs. Cravitz said she saw them doing last week?"
Does it sound silly or ring true? Come on, at some point or another you fancied something as one way and it turned out completely different. My pastor has shared stories about applying for law school but changing his mind and pursuing further education to go into ministry. The skill set he he saw fit for persuading jurors, is now used to disciple. What if that top candidate doesn't accept the job offer? Maybe your B-pick has two years less experience but desires to prove themselves capable and thus excels.
Sound like apples to oranges? Nah. There's relevance. We all envision something as "just right" and sometimes it just doesn't happen. Maybe your date cancelled last minute but while you were at home, you get a phone call from the person who later is your spouse. What if so-and-so couldn't care less about your fundraiser but you learn that your co-chairs' aunt is a local reporter and would love to help. Perhaps your daughter does insist on taking violin, and later a college review board finds her to be the kind of well-rounded student they need and offer her a merit scholarship. Things don't always happen as our "perfect pairing," but turn out to be just right. Is there something you had your sights on that turned out differently? Put aside your initial disappointment and consider the possibilities.
Comments (13)Subscribe to CommentsComment