We cannot change the wind

A Win-Win Situation: The Quality of Good Will. Do you know the feeling? You've finally reached the front of the line at the municipal office-you're next. No sooner have you taken your seat than the clerk's phone rings. The official picks up the receiver and talks to the person on the line for what feels like an eternity, even though you are sitting right across from her. Now you have three options. You could feel slighted; you could draw attention to yourself by pointing to the clock on the wall; or-is this, perhaps, the perfect moment to practice benevolence toward a fellow worker? But why should you extend such courtesy to this person when her phone conversation seems more important to her than you are? She chooses to converse with a machine, even though you are physically present. Yet, you remain friendly. You cast a pleasant glance at the lady from the office. Finally, she turns her attention to you and rewards your patience with a winning smile. She apologizes for having kept you waiting so long. A win-win situation has emerged. Your request is now processed swiftly and with good will. Your energy of good will is rewarded. You remained calm and were thus able to handle the situation with ease. I doubt I would have reacted with such understanding in that situation myself. My impatience and temperament would have cost me a great deal of strength and energy. Demonstrating good will requires decisive personal action. Those who were born with an innate capacity for good will can serve as role models of character strength for many people. Such strong-spirited individuals are likely surrounded by benevolent forces-much like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who penned the following lines: "Surrounded quietly and faithfully by good powers, we await with confidence whatever may come." From Galatians 6:9, I have something to learn. Not giving up is easier said than done. To go through life carefree and unburdened is not a privilege granted to everyone.