I received no small amount of advice.
One friend recommended I attend an upcoming conference. Another suggested a pile of books to read on the subject. Still another mentioned a retreat, weekly counseling or one-on-one mentoring as a means to find strength.
All great suggestions, all possible resources for tackling this trying, beautiful, exhausting life season that, more days than not, leaves me dry and tender.
But, more than a lengthy to-do list (and the endless guilt that came with it), I needed a circle of safety. I didn’t need fixing; I needed surrounding.
When a friend finds herself neck-deep in life’s muck—regardless of the specifics—she needs a person more than she needs advice. But how many times (forgive me!) have I offered an abundance of words and scant little of me?
Oh, that I would stop trying to fix people, and instead spend myself loving them!
Counsel is merely a condiment on the table. When used wisely, sparingly, it adds flavor to the meal. But it will never replace love as the glory of the feast.
If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. ~ 1 Corinthians 13:1 (Message)
Beautiful! Simply said and how often I have found myself trying to ‘fix’ the problem rather than just listening. I just wrote a series on ‘loving intentionally.’ How I wish I would’ve read this first. I would’ve loved to direct people read this. Great job!!!
–Nicole
I love how we’re thinking—and writing—alike. 🙂
I love banqueting at your table. SUCH tastiness in our friendship, Michele, in YOU!!! I love you and I am so glad you are with me during the tough times. I hope I do the same for you!
You have been a surrounder, Robbie, and I’m so grateful. In your presence, I find relief from the pressure to perform and achieve. I can just BE, in all my unloveliness. Thank you!
Amen, Sister!!!!!!! Your blog and your comment about Robbie! Agreed!
🙂 Miss you, Loretta.
Beautiful! I know I’ve been guilty of the same thing even though I’ve experienced myself the need to be surrounded instead of drown in advice.
Me too, Shannon. I cringe at how many times I’ve spoken when I should’ve shushed! Trying to get better at just hanging with people, savoring the moment in all its imperfection.
Beautiful, Michelle! I’ve been taking some time today to visit some of Wordserve’s other clients. I’ve been meaning to do it ever since I signed with Greg. 🙂 Happy to make it by your place. I love these words and have taken them to heart. Blessings~
Nice to meet you, Shellie! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂