Musings at Altitude

I woke up this morning thinking about the huge anxieties that exist in the lives of my family, friends and co-workers today:

• loss of income (from both plunging retirement accounts and uncertainty in jobs)
• change of jobs (because of restructuring or downsizing)
• family expansion on the horizon
• relocations
• intense competition on “must win” programs
• pending retirements
• unexpected bills
• recurring illnesses
• rapidly changing priorities

And as I look at this list, I can sense the fear for some and the great uncertainty in others.  And in many of these areas, I can share intimate stories about my own concerns and how some of these may be affecting me very personally.

But as I look at myself and watch others, I see a very thin line between trepidation and sheer excitement. 

For some, the uncertain future in a job brings great stress and huge fears about their future.  For others, a forced transition is a welcome release from one journey and the opportunity to jump on another. 

For some, the tension of a “must win” competition brings sleepless nights and worries beyond belief.  For others, that same event brings eruptions of confidence (not arrogance) and a team spirit that radiates with a “we’re the best team for this job” mentality.

For some, the changing priorities and the reductions in family spending create great discomfort and drive separation between those affected by any of the changes.  For others, the changes bring bonds of love and trust beyond belief and create everlasting memories of the sacrifices made during those tense times of economic distress.

Ultimately, we have a choice of how we will view any of the challenges we face today.  Will we let fear drive our attitudes and our response?  Or will we use excitement fueled by faith and confidence to overcome barriers, conquer the fear driven demons, and reach new heights in our own lives even in times of great adversity?

We all succumb to fear at times.  But lurking just beyond that fear is that burst of excitement that could launch us forward and bring those smiles that we all so desperately need.

Let’s seek out and latch on to that excitement together!