In my dream, I am in a large, old building -- possibly a barn. I'm here with a considerable number of other people -- all of whom are working hard at what they're doing. And what they're doing is a lot of different things.
I understand that we're all here to turn the building into a theater: stage, rows of seats, lighting, etc. Some of us are working on the structure itself, including carpenters and (possibly electricians, plumbers, etc.) Others are working with potential cast members talking about assignment of roles, costumes, etc. I'm impressed that everyone around me seems to know her/his job and knows how to do it well.
Except me.
I understand that everyone is a volunteer -- bringing his/her talents and skills to this very large project. But I'm not sure that I have anything to contribute. People are so tied up to what they're doing that I'm reluctant to interrupt them and ask if I can be of any assistance.
People walk around me without any sign of recognition. I feel I want to contribute to this program, and feel I might have a usable skill, but the flow of activity around me is just too intimidating.
Ah! There's some trash on the floor in front of me and a broom nearby. I pick up the broom and start sweeping. And someone almost immediately tells me to stop and that I'm not sweeping the right way. He takes the broom out of my hand and starts to sweep. Yes, it isn't the way I was doing it and his way is fine, but I don't see any particular advantage to his method.
Okay, now I really start to feel bad. I can't interrupt anyone to ask for help in getting started doing something helpful... and I can't even sweep the floor the right way.
