Flexible

This weekend, I was accused of being rigid and inflexible.   I suppose I can understand, since it was coming from a person that I considered to be undisciplined and lacking in organizational skills.  However, as always, it is worth taking the time to evaluate the credibility of the criticism, and see whether there are areas I can improve upon. 

My first thoughts would be that this person's perspective is still incorrectly skewed by earlier false accounts, which have biased his view; and he does not have the capacity to see beyond that earlier impression and form his own opinions.   Add to that,  the contrast to his own personality, and resultantly, it's not surprising that he would hold to this view.

While this picture I have painted of my "accuser" is less than positive; that is not the intention.  In actuality, I consider him a generally nice person and would even call him a friend; which is one of the main reasons I am not dismissing his remarks outrightly.  And my view of him is not just a defensive response, but is really based on evidence and observation from the years we have known each other.

However, beyond the expectation that an unstructured person would consider organization and details "rigid"; is there any solid basis behind the accusation?  Well, my other thought is that this person probably doesn't know me very well and hasn't seen me outside of the "leadership" role; for, I do have friends who consider me extremely flexible, to the point where I have earned the nickname "Gumby".    I find it somewhat amusing, that I have been placements at opposite ends of the flexibility spectrum.

So, where am I in reality?  And is there something I need to address? 

Alright, here is what I think.  In areas that are not so important, I believe that I am very flexible.  However, in the areas that are essential, I will stand firm.  Also, in situations where I am in a "leadership" capacity and thus have responsibility, I will do my best to ensure that I pay attention to the details; for as it is often said, the difference between good and great is in the details. 

In areas relating to this person, I have actually worked hard to give as much leeway as possible; but, have stepped in whenever I felt necessary.  And, I am aware of what might have happened were I to leave it all up to chance.  It is definitely not the case that I discount divine intervention; however, my approach is to use prayer as well as planning and action.

So, I conclude that I have not been unnecessarily inflexible; and that I know when to be flexible versus when to stand firm.  I can picture the results of what would happen were I to change from what I am currently doing; and do not see that as good or beneficial.  So, I will "stay the course"....