The Challenge

The idea of coming headlong into a situation and not being sure if you have what it takes, but trying anyway... and prevailing.

All of my real world learning is done for these times.  The do or die times. Or at least it feels that way.  Just meeting expectations is not my style; I strive to see things in a different way, do things that others believe can not be done.  I am a fool for the challange.

Admittedly, this can hold me back sometimes from starting the not so glamorous tasks of the everyday. Doing those hundred little steps, which I've done before, and take no skill, are what lead to my favorite moments of challenge. Yet, in the moment, I don't see it. (See Core value #5 - Descipline) 

The thing is, once I start, even a task as mundane as washing the dishes, I work with an eye to the future.  I think for the times when this is really going to count.  Every aspect is up for grabs.

Why, you ask? For the make or break time.  I think, work, play, discuss, debate for the time when I must narrow all my senses onto one task, and recall any/every detail, in order to triumph.

Traffic is thick, but we are still driving at or above the speed limit.  Chatting about the vacation from which we are now on our way home, I reach down to fiddle with the radio.
"Luke!!"
 I first sense the panic in her voice. Senses narrow. Time slows. I look at Emily. She is pointing ahead, no more words forthcoming, and no time for them.  An eight by twelve plywood board is headed straight for our windshied, blown from the back of the pick-up in front of us. The Challenge. I see it all so clearly, and what I must do...

Rising to the Challenge is the third of my five core values.