I am my own worst enemy when it comes to the beat-down I give myself when I make a mistake. This past weekend in our Sunday Service I missed a critical element in the service. The really bad thing is that I didn't even realize I missed it until someone brought it to my attention. And then self-inflicted beat-down began. First thought- "I can't believe I missed that!" Second thought- "What an idiot!" Third thought- "Repeat first and second thought."
When the mistake was brought to my attention my first reaction was to think of an excuse. I real quickly realized there wasn't one. I simply missed it. Fumble! Foul! So I did what only I could and should do, and that is I owned up to it and apologized.
A few minutes after the conversation where my mistake was brought to my attention, I shot a quick email to a few of the guys on my team, owned the mistake, and then set up some guidelines so that the mistake would not happen again.
Here is where the tricky part comes. I made a mistake. I owned it. I made it right and ensured that it won't happen again. AND RIGHT NOW all I can think about is my second thought- "You idiot!"
I hate when I make a mistake. The good news is that another weekend is coming and with it comes another "take." Another opportunity to get things right. Thank you Jesus for second takes.
I forgot one more thing...
My gift from God is as an encourager... your gift is to refresh us as a church and I know that about you...
Here is your SIGN>>>
Proverbs 11:25 He who refreshes other will himself be refreshed.
Go be the refresher! I love what you do... your heart shines through all of it Pace! Well done!
Posted by: Andrea | February 13, 2009 at 02:35 PM
dude - we all hate that in the pit of the stomach feeling and have been right there! you did the right thing - now just pick up and don't let the past inhibit what God has for your future.
Posted by: Dara Singleton | February 12, 2009 at 01:35 PM
Pace - I enjoy reading your blog. I really appreciate your insight and especially your creativity. I know I have said this a couple of times, but I would really love to come hang out and just observe what you do and how you do it sometime. Anyway, tell Sarah that Cindy and I said hello. By the way, we have our 3rd child on the way in August. Take care and God Bless.
Posted by: Brad Vose | February 12, 2009 at 09:35 AM
I feel your pain - been there, bought the t-shirt. But what was your mistake...own it man - own it?!
Posted by: John Forbis | February 11, 2009 at 10:42 PM