Impact

Okay, so here is something that’s been bothering me lately … the portrayal of “impact” and who does or doesn’t qualify to make an impact. Why is it that we are consumed by this desire to make an impact? I’ll confess, I’m guilty of it too, but have a hard time talking about it because something feels not quite right … like I’m wanting more than I should … and then it hit me just a moment ago while reading “Words to Grow On” in the bi-weekly newsletter from my work: It’s because we ALL already make an impact that it bothers me so much when we talk about how badly we want to have an impact and make a difference in the world … why do I strive? Why do you?

There is nothing wrong, or “less than”, or not enough about the person who fixes my car or waits on me at CPK or orders the office supplies. And there is nothing wrong or “less” or not enough about me in the role that I play now or those that I played in the past. We are all in this same “space” and we were created by the same God and are fulfilling our role TODAY as we surrender ourselves to this process.

We all desire to make a difference … and the really cool thing is that we all do – right where we are … in this moment. I impact my assistant when I treat her with respect and honesty; I impact my family when I call them or email them; I impact my neighbor when I smile at them or say hello … and I never know how big or small that impact is. I am also aware that I can have a negative impact if I’m not careful with my words or my actions.

What I do know, is that this LIFE thing is about the process. It is about being present to the moment I am in right now, facing my realities and shortcomings and living in my strengths as the Lord brings me to new ventures, jobs, relationships, etc. I am a work in progress and I embrace that and welcome the impact I have in my small (very small) circle of influence today. And I am a better person for being in your circle of influence. Thank you for the impact you are having on my life … even in this moment!