Seventeen years ago today I went to a workmate’s party and met a nice man in a purple Kawasaki cap. He was interesting to talk to when I could steer him off the subject of motorbikes. I remember clearly how nervous I felt about going to a party where I didn’t know anybody. There was a good movie on the TV and my house mate was staying home, curled up on the comfy lounge with slippers on. As I was leaving I remember yelling out: “I’ll be home to watch it with you – I’ll just have one drink and come home early!” Famous last words. I think it was 5am when I finally made it home that night! Two years later I married the man in the Kawasaki cap.
I wonder what my life would have been like if I’d given in to my nerves and stayed at home that night, or if my friend hadn’t thought to invite me along to her party. The movie ‘Sliding Doors’ starring Gwyneth Paltrow explores the powerful impact missing a train made on a woman’s life. How intriguing it is to realise that such a simple decision or mishap can shape our destiny.
Life changing moments can appear as nothing more than random events and coincidences, falling haphazardly together to form a reality. Are our lives simply a game of chance, or is there more to it?
I believe our destiny goes far beyond anything we can manipulate and orchestrate. If I had gone to that party with the intention of meeting my future husband I suspect it would never have happened. If we try to force our destiny into reality, it rarely cooperates. It is like fighting against the tide of the ocean. A lifesaver told me recently that if you are caught in a rip you should simply relax and go with the tide. Eventually the ocean will bring you back to shore. Life can be like that too.
Sometimes I worry about making the wrong choice, of losing my one and only chance or of generally mucking up my life, but then I remember an old proverb that describes it so well:
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9
God’s plans will come about despite our organising, striving and, at times, kicking and screaming to have our own way. His power is like the ocean tide, guiding us gently at times and at others knocking us off our feet and turning us upside down, particularly when we refuse to give him our attention.
Seventeen years on, I’m still listening to the motorbike stories, but I’m so thankful I went along with the tide that evening and met my greatest soul mate and friend. Sometimes it’s a relief to acknowledge that we don’t have a lot of control over what happens to us, but there is a plan for each of us, and the One who controls the tides loves us unconditionally and will continue to nudge us in the right direction.
Kerry's Blog 