Are You Sure?

I was at my bus stop waiting for the bus to bring me to my dinner.

Standing next to me was this mother and daughter pair. Two indian girls in their saris. The girl was about 8 years of age. The mother was around her late 30s. She had her head covered in a scarf, and was looking apprehensive.

The young girl then walked towards me and asked," Does the service number 228 go to Bedok Interchange?"

I replied," Yes, it does!"

She asked again,"Are you sure?"

I wanted to jump! I have been staying here for the past 21 years, and you are asking me "are you sure?"

At that same split second. The other thought came to me. I just exclaimed to my brother and dad who were next to me,"This girl is smart!"

At the next moment, another thought dawned on me. This girl is really cynical. For a girl of her age, she does not trust the stranger. A bus drove up, stopped, and she asked the bus driver, "Does this bus go to Bedok Interchange?" Only when the bus driver gave the affirmative, did she lead her mother to board.

This simple incident led me to a few lessons:

#1: Never take things at face value (Management lesson)
It is always better to check, and double check.

#2: It never hurts to be more inquisitive (Another management lesson)
If you don't know the whole picture, ask more.

#3: Trust or lack of trust
It is really difficult to place your trust in people these days. It is something to be thankful for when you have people whom you can trust.

#4: Trusting God in everything
Just as I am more than 100% sure that the bus is going to Bedok, God is more than 100% sure about the steps that I am taking, and will be taking in my life. "Are you sure?" is a statement that is very cutting to the heart to someone who knows the situation well. I was taken aback by that comment. At the same time, I thought, God must have been very upset at each time I ask him "Are you sure?" in the many things in my life. He knows everything, created me, and loves me so much. Yet, doubt is always the thorn that comes in to ruin the whole relationship. Yes, I know I asked Him a particular question ever so often. This is the answer to it. To trust Him in what He is going to do in my life. Because, simply, He is sure. Affirmative.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.