Proverbs 13:10
"Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice"
"No one can give me advice about this problem; our school is unique!" So goes the excuse of those who refuse to admit their shortcomings while wandering in the development wilderness.
I believe that almost one out of every two or three schools is going through some sort of transition or organizational challenge. Some of these are routine and can be handled with internal resources. Some, though, are thornier and could be helped by having perspective and wisdom from others not directly involved.
Sadly, I see schools wrestle unnecessarily rather than "hang out the dirty laundry" for all the world to see.
Isn't it interesting that we want donors to come to us for advice in how much and where to give their money, but we wouldn't ask them to help us sort out a complicated issue in our own work?
We are focusing effort now on future plans for the school. It's not quite strategic planning (though planning is involved) and not a capital campaign (though it involves raising funds); it is something a little different. A few weeks ago I was frustrated and felt totally incapable of knowing the next step. God, in His abundant provision, put several wise people in the meeting who helped clarify the issue and map out the next step or two.
If we are serious about raising time, talent and treasure, it may mean that we have to genuinely solicit advice from our friends who can (and want to) help. It means that we cannot use the meeting as a subterfuge for an ask or to gain their favor for a future gift.
It means that we say "you have some wisdom and perspective that could be helpful in this situation". Then, we stay quiet, listen and pray through what we heard.
Donors have much to contribute; let's make sure we ask for the wisdom gift to be shared as well.
The tricky thing is that asking for help requires humility, something that a guy like me (with a tendency toward pride and a desire to wear the mask of self-sufficiency) struggles to accept. I'd be wise to remember that being humble does not mean being weak, but that strength comes from being honest about our shortcomings (and, as you remind, seeking others that can help).
ReplyDelete