Instantaneous

If nothing else defines and describes us it would be the word - instantaneous. It is an 'attribute' of us all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status or any other way we seem to like to describe ourselves as different from the person standing next to us. All, we ALL. are drawn to instantaneous. We want what we want, when we want (it), how we want (it), if we want (it), where we want (it). But we sometimes don't remember that instantaneous doesn't necessarily mean easier, quicker, better. Sometimes the instantaneous is odorless, flavorless, colorless, and not worth the cost/price. 

So if mediately, instantaneous isn't all that desirable... why do we want our lives to reflect this? What's the hurry? What is it we think we gain by tis approach? I think my answer is that we don't stop to think on these questions... we just race from one thing to the next. Obviously rushing is the mate to instantaneous - the way we express and operationalize instantaneous. And sometimes, in our rushing, we miss something or someone significant to the effective approach to success. Honestly... what IS gained by instantaneous? And don't simply use 'moving on' as the reason. Sometime 'moving on' gives us no memory about how we got to where we are.

I tend to always ask questions and one that I always ask toward or at the end of a 'project' is: what have we learned in the process? We should have learned something about process, ourselves, others, planning, etc. What have been the significant learnings so we can apply them in the future? More often than not I get blank expressions. I'm not certain that learning is ever applied or sought.

If everyone is pursuing the state of instantaneous... why? What's its purpose? Webster's synonyms for the word: "immediate, instant, split-second, straightaway" and "fast, hit-and-run, prompt, quick, rapid, speedy, swift". Some of those synonyms are positively stated but split-second and hit-and-run have a less than positive eventual result. So if both extremes are ineffective responses then obviously the middle ground gives a more favorable opportunity for success?

I would like to propose a different way about going about our day. I can appreciate that dalliance and hesitation may be considered the total opposite to success and only waste time. But in my world, learning, discovering, exploring, enjoying are valued. As you go about your day, here are some questions to ask:

   1. Who and on What am I trusting - what should be my approach today?

         Answer: Proverbs 3:5-6

   2. What is my role, my responsibility - what is required of me?

         Answer: Philippians 1:6>

   3. How do I handle difficulties, obstacles to accomplishment?

         Answer: James 1:2-4

   4. If I don't hurry, how can the goal be reached in a timely manner?

         Answer: Isaiah 41:10

These may not be your answers or even your questions - they are a guide. However, Your answers to these simple 4 questions may become your guide and response to instantaneous and the pressures this brings. What is the goal? Quick or Effective?