We recently received great news on an upcoming project. The proposal took a herculean effort from our team. Many stepped way out of their comfort zone to make this happen. Win or lose, a job well done is a victory in itself. But of course, winning made it better. Yet in the midst of the excitement and pats on the back, I did not share the elation. Don’t get me wrong, the new project is a great thing. I just felt different about it.
One of my daughter’s basketball coaches would always say, “Don’t cheer for a layup, you are supposed to make layups.”
I guess that’s why the congratulations rang a bit hollow. I did my job and that’s what is expected of me. I wish I could as easily dismiss the negatives when I’m not as successful.
In the midst of my contemplation, I got a heavenly hint. A song by Micah Tyler called “Different” streams through my headphones. So powerful. I recommend giving it a serious listen.
Different. Yeah, different.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2
Non conformity. Uniqueness. That’s what I strive for even though sometimes it’s easier to just fit in and fade away. So I’m different, and that’s good.
But then the song continues about being changed until the whole world sees the difference, then asking God to be the difference.
Gut check.
I can hear the difference in the corners of my mind or the recesses of my heart, but on the outside? Not so much. So there’s work to do.
As much as I’d like to think that I have no rough edges, that is just not the case. There are still lumps of clay waiting to be fashioned by the hands of the Master. I am thankful that God is still willing to mold me, even if it hurts sometimes.
So why not be giddy over such a victory in the workplace? Maybe my goals are set differently. Maybe I measure success with a different ruler. Different.
Trevor Lawrence, quarterback for Clemson University, said that football, no matter how big the situation, would not define him. He sees his identity in who Christ thinks he is and who he knows Christ says he is. That gives him confidence, no matter how well he plays.
Success and a different set of goals.
It can be done.
So here I am
Blessed with some success
And always Blessed in Great Measure.
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