This blog is going to touch a few topics about relationships. So put on your booties because we’re about to go knee deep into the unseen muddy waters of your heart. In all of us there are things that we’ve done that we personally vow not to discuss openly.
“There is none righteous, no even one;” – Romans 3:10
“Indeed, there is not a righteous man on earth who continually does good and who never sins.” – Ecclesiastes 7:20
The first topic is SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS. Whoever thinks they are right all the time is absolutely insane. And, most people don’t fit that category. However, there are a lot of people who feel like their ways, their decisions, their opinions, their lifestyle are not open to criticism or discussion. They live life making their own rules, and the only laws they have to follow are the ones they create.
Earlier this year I stopped talking to one of my friends. She always called to ask me about my life so she could share her opinions or live vicariously through me, but didn’t want my opinions on how she lived her life. Then one day I checked her on something she needed improvement on, and she flipped out. Well, I feel we can all agree to disagree, but I’m not going to continue being in a relationship/friendship with someone who isn’t honest with themselves or who wants more than they are willing to give. This is a great quote, “If you already know it all, then you don’t need me”.
The second topic is SELFISHNESS. Life in itself is about giving and receiving. Plants from the earth birth seeds, they then fall back into the earth and yields/produces fruit. Water from the ocean evaporates in the air and falls on the earth.
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” – Philippians 2:3-4
I can’t stand selfish people. Like I don’t need people to share a piece of their po-boy with me, but people who are selfish with their time, their relationships, or their energy don’t really understand the value of people. And, ultimately are not motivated from a spirit of love. If you only show love to people who can do things for you, then you are selfish. Point blank. I said it.
The last topic is APPRECIATION. How can you have a meaningful relationship with someone who doesn’t treat you with respect, honor, and show appreciation towards you.
“Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” – Colossians 3:16
People who haven’t been through anything don’t appreciate much. I truly feel that I can’t have a meaningful relationship with someone who hasn’t faced and overcame struggles. Every morning I wake up I have to take medicine just to function. I’m happy to be alive. This thankfulness and appreciation of life causes me to treat all aspects of my life differently. I’m thankful for all the people who have invested in my life, and I have a strong conviction to also “pay it forward” and invest my time, love and encouragement into others.
Obviously there are certain things in my life that I will not compromise on. It is my way or no way. Like I’m not going to argue with people just to argue, I’m not going to go certain places or do certain things I feel don’t have a purpose (meaning I’m not going to waste my time), and there are certain parts of the day that I need to be silent and just reflect. I’m not trying to be everyone’s friend. I’m not trying to get everyone’s approval. If you want to act self-righteous, be selfish, or not be appreciative… well, I’m not saying we can’t be friends, but don’t expect me to call.