Two Roads and One way

All of us would often come to face this question: which way to choose from the options set before us!

That is what Anna and I faced for the last two years since we retired from the Christian Medical College, Vellore, about our physical location for the next phase of our lives. During the last two years while at Pondicherry, we seemed to have moved towards making this choice. We have had an inner leaning towards wanting to locate in central India and had not entertained the option of coming to live in Kerala. But we saw the need to return to live in kerala becoming clearer as we waited and pondered.

Let me suggest three practical steps in decision making.

The first consideration is the need. It is important to consider all the needs and not just our personal conveniences or prospects alone. Think and consider how our choices will bring some good to to others and not just to ourselves alone.

The second consideration is to clarify which choice would be more consistent with the general direction, ethos and sense of purpose with which we lived so far. It is unwise to choose a step which would invalidate what we have lived for or pursued as a calling and value. There may be an exception to this. But those who would like to pursue a constancy in one's ethos in life, it is necessary to choose that   which would endorse and expand the ethos. The journey in life reveals a pattern as we revisit our choices. This suggests that a retreat from an earlier decision may be necessary, when one is aware of an inconsistency that is setting in, which contradicts the values we want to uphold.

The third consideration is all about the way a particular choice would unfold to express one's gifts, abilities and skills. It is necessary to be open to develop new skills, but it is also important to make sure that there is an opportunity to exercise some skills that one already has. Every change is stressful. It is good to reduce this by making sure that the transition is within the scope of one's ability to cope.

I share this becauseAnna and I have been through this process recently. It is important to avoid an adventurous option, unless one is convinced beyond doubt. Avoid a choice for the sake of the thrill or popularity it may bring as these last only for a short time. We live with what we choose. A habit of discernment in prayer is the most helpful means to go through this process of choosing the ONE WAY.

M.C.Mathew(text and photo)