Waiting

by Ross A. Aalgaard, MSW, LGSW

612.332.7743 ext. 235
raalgaard@wpc-mpls.org

Have you ever noticed that when you're in a hurry: stop lights take longer to change; people walk slower than the pace you set for yourself; traffic becomes jammed and bank teller lines are much longer? It seems when we want to accomplish something-when we have a vision, a job to do, a mission to fulfill-there are situations and circumstances that seem to slow us down. Often, this can cause frustration. I think it's very easy for us all to agree-it's hard to wait.

I have been thinking a lot about waiting, mainly because I've been doing a lot of waiting. After graduating with my Master of Social Work degree, I had to wait to find a position. I had to wait for my grades to get posted to my transcript and wait for my degree to arrive. Since starting my position at Westminster Counseling Center on September 1, I have had to wait for my actual physical license, I have had to wait for clients, and I have had to wait on insurance. I've had to do a lot of waiting lately and it hasn't been all that enjoyable.

We live in a very instant culture, a fast-food world. Everything seems to be quick and immediate. When things don't go the speed we expect we often become frustrated, irritated, and even anxious. It truly is difficult for us to wait. And yet, in spite of the world we live in, waiting is an integral element of our human existence.

Think about when parents first hear that there will be a child coming into their lives and family. Generally, this is announced well before the infant arrives. There is a period of gestation which is an active time of waiting and preparation for the family. It would seem strange and unnatural to arrive in a doctor's office to be told, "You're going to have a baby. Hold on one minute and I'll go get her for you." Within the process of adoption, there is also a period of waiting for the expectant parents. These times of waiting can be truly a blessing that is often overlooked.

We in Minnesota can attest to the changing of seasons. Each season can be a preparation for the next. We will soon be entering into the Advent Season on the church calendar. Advent is the season of expectant waiting and preparation for celebration of the Nativity of Jesus. Waiting is built into not only our lives, but also our faith tradition.

Since waiting is inevitable, I would like to encourage us to make every attempt not to become frustrated with it. Rather, when waiting occurs in your life, claim it as an opportunity. When there is a demand to slow down- instead of getting irritated with it-use it to regroup, to center yourself, to clear your mind, to gain focus or find a new one. Listen to the voices around you or within you. Fill your waiting with expectation. Use the time to prepare or fine tune things. See if you can find how worthwhile waiting can be.