Do you ever struggle to know when it’s time to let go of a commitment?
Last week I wrote (Chasing Dog Biscuits) about an issue I need to address as we prepare for Rich’s Ride. My problem wasn’t identifying the issue or knowing what needed to happen. My problem was taking action.
I was immobilized by fear.
I made a commitment. I told lots of folks about it. And I feared their judgment if I failed to keep my commitment.
I think keeping promises is important. I’m sometimes too quick to promise, but that’s no excuse. Promises shouldn’t be made, or broken, lightly. I want others to know they can count on me, and a big part of that is trusting that I’ll do my best to fulfill my commitments.
However, as the writer of Ecclesiastes 3 explained, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
A time to…
…admit that I need to make a change.
Rich’s Ride will raise funds in support of a wonderful organization called Convoy Of HOPE.
Since 1994 Convoy of Hope has served more than 44 million people throughout the world through international children’s feeding initiatives, community outreaches, disaster response and partner resourcing. From Joplin, Missouri to Haiti, Convoy of Hope has been there to meet the needs of those facing adversity.
This change is in no way a negative reflection on the incredible work of Blood:Water Mission. My admiration and support of their efforts remains unchanged.
This is not a move away but toward. My advisory board has ongoing relationships that will allow us to leverage our efforts for maximum results. It’s become clear that this move will help us prepare for and promote the ride more efficiently.
An added benefit is that Convoy Of Hope has been on the ground in much of the region we’ll be visiting. As we travel through regions that are still recovering from devastating floods and tornados, we’ll support an organization that’s directly involved in those efforts.
One final note: many of you helped to publicize a video for the Invacare—Real Life contest. With your help, we were able to reach the finals. We’ll find out in a few weeks how we did. If we’re fortunate enough to win, I’ll be delighted to support Blood:Water Mission with the $6000 charity donation as advertised.
The lesson
I don’t know if I learned anything new or profound from this experience. I am reminded of a few important principles:
- Make commitments carefully.
- Do all you can to fulfill your promises.
- Don’t assume—your level of commitment may not be reciprocated.
- Listen—to God and to the counsel of others.
- Don’t remain on the wrong path out of fear.
- Don’t make—or avoid making—any decision out of fear.
You’ll note some contradictions in my list. Those will remain until I discover the process for perfect, error-free decision making. Anyone care to offer their five-step plan?
I didn’t want to make this decision. Now that it’s done, I’m convinced it’s the right thing to do.
But, being honest, that still doesn’t make it easy.
How do you know when you should stick with a commitment and when it’s necessary to move in a different direction?
You can leave a comment here.
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