I heard a phrase last week that I haven’t heard in a long while… think tank.
I know that if you’re invited to be part of a think tank it is a compliment to your intelligence, experience or abilities. But, personally, I can’t think of much else I’d rather not do.
The thought of thinking about thoughts while discussing other peoples thoughts on their thoughts and your thoughts… wow… I think I could find other things to do. Maybe like doing, er, anything.
Don’t get uptight, I know there are a very legitimate and real needs for a think posse, and they probably accomplish much more than you and I could ever really appreciate. But, it’s definitely not a job for me.
Processing, thinking, mulling over, contemplating are all necessary, but I’m more of a “let’s get on it” guy. In fact here’s a few of my favorite phrases:
- Just do it
- Pull the trigger
- Time to fish or cut bait
- Get off the pot
- Trial and error has begun!
- It’s go time
- Worth a shot
- I’ll call you from the finish line
If think tanks represent one end of the spectrum (over processing), I find myself just as frustrated with the other end of the spectrum where some ignore/deny the issue (under processing).
If you are prone to the latter, you probably have apps on your phone that are great ‘time killers.’
Why would you even want to do that?
Don’t kill your time, release your parental rights, I’ll adopt it.
Maybe I start a foundation for unwanted time, or at least write a book: “A Convenient Truth: You have the time”
Think tanks can represent active avoidance and denial can represent passive avoidance. I just want to get rid of the “avoi,” let’s “dance.”
Again, if your a thinker and love to process, many blessings on you.
If you love to loligag and your favorite sport is dodgeball, feel the love.
But, personally I’m the guy who’s leg is bouncing under the table just waiting for someone to say, “Ok, let’s give it a shot.”
Even though I really appreciate action I have to admit, sometimes taking steps is difficult.
In the book of Revelation, John sees multiple visions of things to come and in one small instance he is asked to do something odd.
Revelation 10:9 So I went to the angel and told him to give me the little scroll. And he said to me, “Take and eat it; it will make your stomach bitter, but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey.”
While there are lots of possible applications for this verse related to John’s personal ministry, end times theology and all kinds of stuff I don’t understand (maybe I should start a think tank to figure it out), there is a simple, practical thought that blesses me.
Often it tastes good to learn something, but using it can be a foul experience.
Learning about the character of God in a Bible Study or worship experience is far from practicing the faith in real life. Making plans and dreaming about the future may be a sweet experience, but we feel the burn when the rubber hits the road.
Resolving to lose weight and workout, planning to get your budget under control, pledging to work out the relationship kinks are all fantastic thoughts. But, once you hit the gym, shut of the cable, and talk about/to the inlaws, things can start to leave a bitter taste in your mouth.
Still, this is what needs to happen.
Ideas are sweet, but application is good (but nasty) medicine.
So, whatever you have decided to do, do it. It will never get any easier and there will never be a better time.
The sweetness of the original idea may dissolve into some bitter disciplines, but have no fear.
Eat what’s on your plate. It’s good for you.