Are You An Expert?

BY MARK

An expert.   When I was a teenager, I thought I was an expert on most things, and couldn’t believe how little so many other people knew (cue: eye roll).  I then started learning some things, and then some more things, and then I began to realize that I might, just maybe, not be an expert on most things.  As life has progressed, the only thing I know for sure is that I know very few things for sure. 

Our daily life in Haiti continues to show me how much I need to learn.  Every day I am asked questions that leave me befuddled (I don’t get to use the word “befuddled” often, but it fits).  I am often asked to use or comprehend language nuances that leave me speechless.  My skill set to repair our vehicle is dismal.  I see pathology at our clinic that leaves me scratching my head (especially if it is something that looks as if it would itch).  I am asked questions about plumbing, electricity, concrete, development, theology, healthcare, orphanages, fundraising, computers, telephones, directions, culture, travel, relationships, water treatment, management, business practices, horticulture, public health, insect management and, well, you get the idea.  (As a side note, no one asks me about fashion or hair care.  Hmmm…) 

So, I do a lot of research.  I continue to try to learn all that I can so that I can give a minimally intelligent answer to a query, but many times I will open my mouth without the research and remove all doubt that “I am not an expert!”.  I continue to learn:  moment after moment, day after day, week after week.

HOWEVER, I now know some things for sure!!

---I know that I need to depend on others for advice!

---I know that I need to keep learning….always!

---I know that when I have no idea what to do, God does!

I read a quote that said “An expert is a person who makes three correct guesses consecutively”.  I am still guessing, but learning along the way…while remaining befuddled, bemuddled, perplexed and becoming more dependent on God to be the expert.

Proverbs 3:5-7” Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.  Do not be wise in your own eyes…”