There is a story about three stone cutters. They labor side by side, sweating over the laborious task of shaping rocks into usable bricks. One foot by one foot by nine inches, over and over every day. A woman was curious about their purpose. 

 

"What are you doing?" she inquired of the first man.

 

"What a stupid question! Can't you see I am cutting stones into bricks? It is back breaking work. I must get the measurements right and mistakes cost me so go away! Don't bother me, ignorant woman!" 

 

Startled, she walked over to the next man.

 

"What are you doing?"

 

"I am working to provide for my beloved family. The money I earn puts food on the table, and gives my wife and children a humble home where they are safe." He smiled and went back to his task. The woman smiled as well and approached the third worker. 

 

"What are you doing?"

 

He stood slowly and arched his aching back. Then he looked into the sky.

 

"I am making a great cathedral! It will reach up to the heavens, and be a house of worship for generations for a thousand years. People will come for comfort, and to commune with God." He sighed deeply.

 

The woman bowed to him and walked away. 

 

Much of the time all we can see is what people do. We are not privy to why they do it. But therein lies the synapse. The mystical energy between a person and their purpose. 

 

I can recall times I plodded through the chores of my day. Changing diapers, washing pots, putting away socks, stirring potatoes. Sometimes it was a nuisance, and an interruption to what felt like real life. Other days I was more content to be absorbed in the repetitive acts of serving people I love. 

 

Then there are moments when I can believe that what I do is part of a greater whole. One whose Architect has a vision of eternity. In some ways the events of our lives are out of our control. The supper will not make itself. The baby cannot do her own wash. But the less visible element is within our purview. And therein lies enormous potential to be free. 

 

I wonder what my response would be if an angel walked up and asked what I am doing.