DailyConnections.net

THURSDAY THOUGHT 10/16/08

Relationships Count
 
I come from a long line of tough, independent, annoyingly arrogant loners.  I’ve watched family members stand on pride and surrender relationships with loved ones; or struggle alone in crises against overwhelming odds, never blinking, never complaining; or not know how much others needed their support, understanding and compassion.
 
I was once that way.  (And, yes, touch the wrong nerve with me and my nostrils can still flair, my head snap up, and my eyes burn.)  But I also found being a hard-shelled, tough loner just doesn’t work:  Such souls may become the best at something, but they never reach their full potential as people.  That takes relationships.   
 
My point:  I’ve learned that life is like a three-legged race.  We need others to get along, and others need us.  The best part:  When we trip up and stumble, we get to laugh as we tumble, sharing the adventure and the bruises.  Enjoy others.  They are blessings.  — jri
 
“We are given power and resources
and influence for the benefit of others.”
        –    John Eldredge
               (The Way of The Wild Heart)