I was standing in a long waiting area lit only by the morning’s dawning light. The furnishings were modern and clean, like something you would find in a new airport. The tall seamless windows protected the warm air inside from a brisk winter wind. I was in the company of professionals who viewed me with respect. Though I was junior among them, I was one of them. Juxtaposed to my cheery state of affairs, awaited a bus in the parking lot. Where I was they could not come, regardless of any charitable intentions on my part or those in my company. Their condition was cold and uncomfortable. Some trying and failing to find just the right position that sleep required, while other’s did their very best to pass the time with whatever type of hand held entertainment they could find.
Those in the warm building as well as those in the cold bus found themselves in their current state of affairs not because of luck or misfortune, but because of the decisions that had led them there. As my mind caught a hold of this reality, my chest began to swell with gratitude. I was happy with where I was, I knew that it had been earned. I knew that life of different choices would have found me on the bus, too cold to enjoy the ride.
This is much like the parable of the ten virgins. I have realized that that principle does not only apply to the Second Coming, but the entirety of our lives. It is possible to extend help and charity, to brighten a day and lighten a load. However, success and the fulfillment that follows it is impossible to bestow.
ns 15.158.61.11da2
