Disclosure

    It has been said that we all have problems.  Life does not just fall into anybody's lap and that is the way that it is going to be until this world comes to an end.  So, how and who do you tell about your problems? The thing that I struggle with is knowing when somebody has heard just about enough of your problems.  I am fortunate enough to not have to much of a struggle with letting people know that things are not sailing as smoothly as I like.  I say fortunate not because it is good to be a complainer, but it is good to be able to be honest with people about what is really going on.  At least this is true when there is legitimate care from the other person, and it also has to be said, that if you are more than willing to share your problems with others, be sure that you make yourself available for them to do the same with you.

    So, how do we go about helping each other, and live in a loving community if we cannot be honest with each other?  This then has to be balanced with giving other people ample opportunity to share as well, especially if they struggle with letting other people in.  Unfortunately the squeaky wheel tends to get greased, when the truth is we all have problems, and need help.  So what I am trying to say is that we all need to open up to people, and let them open up to us.  We all want to be heard, so I encourage you to be an ear to somebody this next week, and if you do not struggle with listening then take some time talking.  Maybe it is time for you to ask for help.

    In my experience growing up with and around Mennonites one thing becomes evident.  Everybody is willing to help you out.  As long as there is somebody who is worse off then I must be doing alright for "myself."  So the hardest thing was not spending time helping people, but it was allowing people to help me. It reminds me of a couple of lines from a Hymn called "Servant Song" if in fact is a hymn.  Any who it goes like this if you have not heard it "Brother, let me be your servant. Let me be as Christ to you. Pray that I might have the grace To let you be my servant, too" (Richard Gillard, Servant Song)  So hopefully as you seek deeper harmony whilst living in community with those around you, a balance can be found for more pleasant living.