Bride or Broncos? Power of Perspective
I love talk-back radio. It offers an insight into the kaleidescope of mindsets and convictions held by people in the world we are called to reach.
This morning’s program on a particular station discussed whether or not people with genetically transferrable illnesses should choose to have children or not. Callers ranged from those with early-onset Alzheimers, bi-polar, genetic disorders causing death in children, and more. Interestingly, the vast majority of callers felt that the potential for life far outweighed the possibility of sickness.
In the midst of a quite moving and emotional discussion, a caller from the Gold Coast came on air with his own pressing dilemma. He was in a quandry and did not know what decision to make. His problem was causing great stress and could have dire consequences for his marriage. The off-air gasp of anticipation from thousands of listeners was almost audible! What could be so urgent to detour us from issues of life and death?
He was a Brisbane Broncos season ticket holder and was there when Brisbane triumphed in the start of the finals over Gold Coast Titans on Saturday night. Well because of this win now they’re playing again at home. But our caller had already booked a holiday with his wife on the Sunshine Coast! Alas, what should he do?! Give up the chance to see his beloved Broncos in action to spend quality time with his beloved Bride? Or risk her ire and hostility by ducking back down to Brisbane for another great game, leaving her…alone…stranded…and plotting her revenge?
My first thought was “O ye of little faith! Why would you book a holiday at finals time when you are a season ticket holder!” Alana’s comment was “Go to the footy, book her into a day spa and you’ll both be happy!”
Neither of us could believe such an intense, emotional, heart-wrenching topic had been hijacked by a man so consumed by his own little problem, and so unable to make a wise decision that he needed to go on national radio for help!
Shows the power of perspective – the most important issue/need/problem to most people is THEIR issue/need/problem. As leaders we are always calling people to a higher level of life and to a greater cause. It’s helpful to remember the power of perspective – start where the person is at first, touch a nerve which means something to them, and use it as a catalyst to lead them into a bigger world.
