Quiet Influence

Uncomfortable conversations don't always end well. The exposed vulnerability of the people on the opposite ends of the table may bring grave hurt, lots of misunderstandings, shares of offense and defense-some of them beyond salvage. However, when people come to the table with the intention of love, sincerity, and empathy, uncomfortable conversations open the door to healing and deepen what used to be superficial.
Uncomfortable conversations are for those who can love despite the hurt, listen beyond the words, respect differences, and see behind what's obvious.

In December 1937, during a football match at Stamford Bridge in London between Chelsea Football Club and Charlton Athletic FC , the game was abandoned in the 60th minute due to heavy fog.

Unfortunately, Charlton FC goalkeeper Sam Bartram was unaware that the match had been stopped and continued to guard his goal for another fifteen minutes. He did not hear the referee's whistle because of the noise from the crowd behind him. Believing that his teammates were attacking the opposing goal, he stood with outstretched arms, fully focused on protecting his goal amidst the dense fog.

It was only fifteen minutes later when the field police approached him and informed him that the match had been abandoned fifteen minutes earlier. Sam Bartram, deeply saddened by this, famously said:

"HOW SAD THAT MY FRIENDS FORGOT ME WHEN I WAS GUARDING THEIR GATE."

Life's game is much like this. We diligently and supportively guard the goals of many around us, but when the situation becomes foggy, some may abandon us.

Don't chase perfectionism, chase your purpose instead. Find out what brings you a sense of meaning and joy and organise your life around that.❣️✨🙏