At the end of the day I see the person who is least likely to impress me staring back from the mirror. It is difficult to be impressed with someone who is adept at failure, profane in social grace and inadequate to provide articulate responses to intelligent inquires. Having been familiar with every strata of the American business environment, I have witnessed profoundly talented folks performing amazingly, even setting the bar for those who follow. That is not what I am seeing in the mirror.
Thinking I was prepared to face what was out there was a huge over calculation. This is obviously not the best part of the day. I cringe at the thought of the coarseness with which I have responded to the circumstances of the day. The trembling before giants, cowering at attacks and doubt within have bent and dented all hope. The tired and haggard looking person staring back has no hint of victorious smile, no glint of great accomplishment in the eye and no raised chin or puffed out chest. I see none of those famous body language indicators an expert might indicate in their latest book on seven steps to whatever. Time takes its toll.
Experience teaches us (if we will listen) that we often forget the lessons we swore we would learn and remember. The results of our practice show us how inept we are at assimilating and retaining the key elements of success in our endeavors.
At the end of the day I mull over the shortcomings and dull moments that a sharper quick thinking mind could have handled well. I rehearse what I could have and perhaps should have said or did. In my self-analysis I often ask “What was the name of the horse which came in fifth at the Kentucky Derby?” Nobody remembers that horse and I doubt anyone else will remember any portion of my dilapidated day’s activity. No, I don’t know if the electricity is still turned on as I forgot to hit the light switch. I figured there was enough light from the fading sun coming through the window. It is a body weary mind numbed resignation that exudes destitution. There is very little in that mirror staring back which would cause hope, inspire confidence or express any power to impress. Not even the rabbits in the garden run away at the sight of this unthreatening plodder. This is obviously not the best part of the day.
Then with the reconstitution of an evening meal, restful contemplation of other interests and the sweet absence of the day’s previous concerns, a transformation takes place. Weary can be replaced with wonder. A worn down grumble can turn to a quiet whoopee. The pleasantness of home can bring slow waves of undulating escape as a defense against permanent injury. The expectation of such a nirvana relaxation was missed in the hustle and bustle of the waning day.
Now its softly gentle rising tide soothed away aggravation and discontent. Joyful conversation with those who endured a much lighter day or even the solitude of leaning back in silence gratefully relaxes the edgy nerves. Time passes until the appointed hour. Decompression is a process and a slightly better part of the day. Blissfully sleep comes.
In the morning there is a new hero in town. The mirror is refreshed. The fog has dissipated. Whoever or whatever the sorry example of human flesh that was in the mirror last night has not returned. This reflection is refreshed, restored and ready to roll.
There is a new day ahead with its own set of issues, conflicts and opportunities. Opportunities to climb to highest mountains, swim widest oceans, plunder the depths and riches of unfathomed wealth, or to generally have a great day.
Armed with great determination, lessons of days gone by, confidence in the possibilities and every other positive attitude thought which can be mustered the warrior goes forth. This impressively formidable figure exudes confidence.
The battle is likely to be similar. Openings may appear for the briefest of moments. The sharpness of the morning will be an asset. There is no trembling, no cowering, no doubt.
This is the moment all the preparation has led to. The sun is up regardless of whether any clouds are under it. Weather is not an obstacle. The goal is clear and attainable. No mechanical hindrances will deter. It is indeed the best part of the day.