“And like no other sculpture in the history of art, the dead engine and dead airframe come to life at the touch of a human hand, and join their life with the pilot’s own.” ― A Gift Of Wings
To focus on the basics, will provide an unshakeable stability when nothing seems fixed. In these moments it is helpful to be reminded of what really matters. Of that which is unseen and unchangeable.
A few weeks ago, I headed to the airport to pump up the air in my airplane’s tires. They had, over time gotten a bit low, and on a previous visit, I was unable to remedy the situation due to not having the right tools on hand.
Once the air pressure was dealt with. I decided to roll her out and head for the skies. It was a perfect, yet rare Kansas evening: not too warm or humid and zero wind on the ground. I took off and found the upper air as smooth as glass. It was glorious, peaceful and restoring.
Back on the ground, I focused on the basics, the four forces that allow flight, no matter the craft:
- Lift
- Drag
- Gravity/weight
- Thrust
It’s these four basic laws that, when combined in correct proportion, allow flight. Nothing more, nothing less. Other forces, such as human error, mechanical failures or adverse meteorological conditions don’t change those laws, they simply interfere with the balance needed to maintain flight. It’s really pretty simple.
Simplicity, Elegance, and Harmony
Of course there are infinite details that need learning and attending, in order to recognize and find that sweet balance. But even when something interferes with a place of balance, remembering these four laws will allow one to find that balance again – even if it only long enough to safely get on the ground!
We live in a world that has, at its’ core some basics. They have characteristics which resonate with simplicity, elegance and harmony. When human forces interfere, I focus on the basics. As things malfunction or other forces push contrary – focus on the basics.
In Turbulence – Focus On The Basics
There is little doubt we live in turbulent times. Whether it the worst ever, is up for discussion. Many expert and learned folk are saying it will get worse. Are we preparing? To the extent possible, yes. Just as I prepare when a flight is headed into turbulence by sitting up, tightening my seat belt and looking for alternatives, I also revisit the basics when times around me are turbulent.
In these times, its wise to check up on one’s faith basics. Ultimately, faith is not a what but a Who. To have faith in all the “what’s” out there, will most likely fall short since the what’s in the world are subject to change. To put one’s faith in the One who made all the what’s – that’s wisdom.
One daily activity that facilitates my focus is journaling. These are my personal stories that will most likely never be public. Yet, they are important to write. Each day, I Give My Story A Voice if only to myself and Jesus.
How do you process the turbulent forces in your life? How does it help regain focus? Your comments are welcome and appreciated.