The Sound of a Paradigm
Fear “there is no passion which so quickly unhinges our judgement.” – Montaigne
I love to listen to musical artists’ such as Van Morrison, Joe Cocker, Bruce Springsteen, Blind Lemon Jefferson and Muddy Waters. I know that’s an eclectic group but there is a commonality that they share. None of these artist posses what you would consider a model voice.
As a parent, I consider if my child came to me and expressed an interest in a musical career with a voice like Bob Dylan or Mick Jagger. I would probably suggest another line of work or something behind the scenes. I doubt any of them sang a solo in the school musical but they each have a unique voice, an individual sound that is theirs. Perhaps, it is that difference that some find so appealing when searching for something that resonates within them.
I feel as though they have a power to express a wide range of emotions with a gritty realism that is accessible. As individuals and performers they recognize something in themselves. They live out the laws of the mirror and awareness not to mention the laws of environment, pain and reflection found in The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth.
Even though a grade school music teacher may not have recognized their abilities, they were able to see the value in themselves, know they could perform, place themselves in the right environment and use the pain and reflection of it all to tap into abilities, talents and emotions that are inspirational.
I find their courage to be the difference. To reach any level of success as an artist, entrepreneur, speaker or coach, you have to tap into a certain flavor of courage.
I know many people that have gifts and talents but never use them to anything near their potential. They are held hostage to fear disguised as excuses. If we all wait for perfect conditions to exist before moving forward we will be standing at the bus stop for an eternity.
The ability to embrace a challenge and its’ uncertainty is a fearfully beautiful thing. As the ancient proverb advises “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Embracing the teachings of the John Maxwell Team is that step forward into a rich, meaningful life that seeks to bring out the best in everyone we encounter.
The surprise that we discover is the growth that grows and even accelerates through this process. I was working with a group of people preparing for an overseas mission trip and together we stumbled upon a paradigm shift. I asked “what if, when we prayed, instead of asking God to remove our difficulties, we thanked him and asked for discernment and wisdom through these difficulties?”
This shift in thinking along with the recognition of the laws of growth have definitely shaped my worldview and even the way I listen to music.
About the Author
Gary Sirkel is a Featured Writer for the John Maxwell Team Blog.
He leads Metis Performance Solutions and is a member of The John Maxwell Team.
He is a leader of transformation, turning managers into leaders, groups into teams and individuals into influencers.
Contact Gary at : http://www.johncmaxwellgroup.com/garysirkel/