From My Perspective - - -

The manner in which one would describe his world in general and his own life in particular could be summarized with one word – tension. An apt definition and summary for tension is: “the state of being stretched or strained; mental or emotional strain; intense, suppressed suspense, anxiety, or excitement; a strained relationship between individuals, groups, nations…” In some instances, “tension” is both desired and acceptable. Something, or someone, must have the ability and desire to “stretch” without snapping. In human relationships, it is desirable to have those who are able to endure stress and tension without a result snapping and breaking. In Leadership, it is preferable to have those who can maintain a tranquil spirit rather than one who displays erratic behavior. In any learning curve, the quest should be to find those with abilities and skills, as well as those who are striving after and living up to their potential.

When one is in College or Graduate School, “grades” are important. All are striving for excellence and acceptance. If one received a “C” for course work done, while that was a passing grade in most situations, it was also an indication that one was not living up to his/her potential. A good and caring Advisor would (or should) encourage the student to work harder; research longer; and develop the skill to assimilate what one is learning and to have the ability to communicate what has been learned in a discernable and understandable way.  This is foundational for anyone who aspires to make a contribution to the culture and society in which one resides and where one should have an impact. It is applicable also for those who will attain and assume Leadership positions. While a “C” is a get-by grade, it is not the grade with which one should become accustomed or content. However, when it come to Leadership, a “C” classification would be a mark of excellence. 

If one is to be a successful in Leadership, there must be a demonstrated attainment of nothing less than a “C” level. There should be, at a minimum, the following: (1) Competence – the person is able to do the task well; (2) Character – the possession of traits and qualities that allows one to model integrity and authenticity; (3) Commitment – one who is focused and who will carry out to completion the task that needs to be done; and (4) Consistency – one with predictable behavior and work ethic; a person free of peaks and valleys in personality issues and task performance.  This is the only way to be free of the Voids and Vacuums – marked by nothingness - that so often occur. The whole idea of being suspended or floating in nothing is sad and deplorable. One needs to avoid the voids and vacate the vacuums.

The Book of Hebrews covers several important areas of/for life. There are Warnings as well as Calls to Commitment (one would do well to search out the “let us” commitment passages – start with Hebrews 10 and 12).  In Hebrews 2:1-3 is the first of several warnings recorded in the entire book. This passage is addressing – The Danger Of Drifting. Note the words: “…we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?” The picture is clear – drifting away from what we have heard and been called upon to be and do.  One could think of a ship that has been loosed from its moorings during a storm and has become a vessel drifting aimlessly and precariously. The Sons of the Pioneers popularized the song of life from a cowboy’s perspective in their song, Tumbling Tumbleweeds: “See them tumbling down, Pledging their love to the ground, Lonely but free I'll be found - Drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds. Cares of the past are behind, Nowhere to go but I'll find, Just where the trail will wind, Drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds.” This is life being lived in the Void and Vacuum – aimless, directionless, purposeless. Don’t let that happen to you. Be diligent and a person of purpose. Set Goals and – by God’s Grace - Achieve your Potential. Consider these things with me!