The grand scheme of life

One baseball player who made it to the baseball hall of fame was asked what he wished someone would have told him when he first started playing baseball. He replied, "I wish that someone would have told me that when you reach the top, there's nothing there."

There is also the story of a very wealthy man who said in his last days that he wished he had spent more time with his wife (he was divorced many times) and his children. Many people fervently pursue so-called successes only to realise their emptiness after years have been wasted.

I have heard so much power-struggle and office politics in the last few weeks from the private to the public sector to the self-help industry that makes me ask, "what's the grand scheme of things here? Is it power? Is it control? Is it fear?" I feel tired just listening to these, what more partaking in them. I guess I was lucky enough never having to dabble in politics. Basically, I refuse to be part of it, even though that does not give me immunity from it. I have been a victim of politics a few times but survived. A little bruises here and there but no great harm done. Maybe I was never in that kind of high position where politics can literally kill one's career.

But seriously, if it's not a matter of life (like losing one's job) and death (career death, that is), is it worth wasting time and energy to think of ways to outdo one another and be seen as the victor/ not the loser?

A couple of years ago, it would have bothered me very much about being seen as a loser in my career. But it occurred to me that many years from now, on my dying bed, I wouldn't remember or be remembered about being a star employee. That's not how I wanted it either. I'd rather be happy and carefree and know in my heart that I have been right with God. That does not mean that I absolve my responsibilities from being a good employee. I am accountable for the salary that I am paid but I will not make casualities of anyone (including myself and my family) because of it.

The bible says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30) and “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10b).

I am not a good christian, yet, but I know that putting God as the centre of my life is probably the best bet there is. He is the grand designer and my compass for the grand scheme in life. I can't think of a better life coach.