Monday, 09 June 2008
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No Man is an Island
"No Man is an Island" I've heard that all my life. But until a few years ago, I didn't realize how true it is. I grew up in a family where everyone was disconnected. Some of my extended family live in the same town I do, but the only time we see them is if we run into them at the store. Growing up, I'd listen to my family complain after company left because they dropped in unexpectedly, or complain if they knew they were coming. They never go to parties, or get togethers with friends. So growing up, I never realized how much I needed other people, because I didn't see it lived out in my parents lives. It wasn't until college that I realized how important other people are. Going to inner-city St. Louis on a mission trip, I learned how to lean on others, be myself, and be vulnerable in front of others. It felt so good to truly fellowship with my brothers and sisters in Christ. They became closer than my real family. I then became part of another family through the church I was going to. And now I have a second set of parents.
The youth group I'm helping with is learning about the importance of relationships. Religion with relationships isn't powerful...it's just religion. So not only do we have to be in a relationship with God, but we must continually be in relationships (real, meaningful, show your scars) kind of relationships. It's a reminder to me as well that I must continually be seeking out relationships with not only Christians, but non-christians as well (but that's a whole nother blog). So relationships, they're important, hard, scary, but so worth it!
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Comments (3)
It *is* scary. I've been attending the same church since last August, and I'm intending on becoming a member there, and I love everything about that church.
I haven't really met a single person there.
Sure, I shake hands during the Sign of Peace, and say hello to the ushers as they hand me my bulletin, but I don't really *know* anyone there. I don't even think I've said hello to the pastor. Hopefully soon I'll get over that hump. :)
HI! Saw that you came by my site and wanted to check out who you are. :)
I agree that we need people in our lives, else God would have made one person! LOL
I grew up being very independent and mature. The oldest of 3 kids to a single mom I was in charge a lot and held responsible for too much. I learned at a young age that people, especially men, can not be depended on and that I needed to take care of myself. I never realized how alone my heart was until recently! Sure I had lots of boyfriends growing up and am married now but, preparing for a divorce. We all desperately need friends and family relationships!
It's good to see that you now know that and are working towards a better life!
Hey, thanks for the comment!
Actually, I should have made note. The story was about some people we know, not actually my family. But, the reason I post stories like that from time to time is because of our own experience with Original Limu. My dad is a diabetic, and I believe if God had not intervened by leading us to this, we would have lost him last summer. It's been our answer to prayer!
Ahh, relationships. Proceed with caution.
I'll leave my thoughts at that
Through His Love,
Sarah