Walking

I walk for exercise with my sister in law. Our schedule was 4 miles every Monday through Thursday. We have just changed that schedule to 5 miles Mondays and Wednesdays and 2 miles on Fridays. We are devoted to being there, on time, ready to go. If she wasn't there I wouldn't go. Even though I love the effect the exercise has, leaner legs, higher metabolism, and an overall sense of health, I am there for the relationship we have. I love our talks. Some days we talk very little, and even that is comfortable. Some days we don't have enough time to share all that has built up from the day before. I think what makes it so good is that we are very similar. We have comparable goals and similar interests. We rejoice in one another's successes and cry with each other in pain and hardship. Her fun is my fun, even if we aren't together. I desire her very best, with or without me. I know that is true for her, too. That is what makes a good friendship. Not what we do together, but that our joy is for the other to succeed at whatever God has given them to do.

Thank you, sister, for being faithful, not just to walk with me but by being a good friend. (5 miles wasn't so hard!)

Silence is Golden

Silence. It's been a while since I have posted anything. I think there may be a couple of reasons for the silence.

First, sometimes I talk too much. So, in response to too much chatter, it is good for me to go on a fast of words, even to myself, which is essentially what this blog is, an exercise in personal expression.

Second, I really needed the time to take a break and not take myself too seriously. Could I really offer any insight that might shed light on this world? I have such a limited view of the events that surround me. "Lightbulb"!! Things that I experience and every little occurance in my world are not necessarily about me!

Silence is Golden? Another way to say it is, "experiencing life to the fullest with open ears and a teachable heart is worth a fortune!" Give me less of me and more of the valuable stuff, wisdom (ie Christ).

Unity

Unity. Merriam Webster defines unity as "continuity without deviation or change (as in purpose or action)". I propose that most of us characterize unity as an exercise in self control. These I fear, are two completely separate and incompatable definitions.

The selfish definition that I have suggested is the simpler of the two for a limited time. Self control, simply for the sake of restraint, will soon give way to broader emotions of desire to manage our circumstances. When these emotions are bared, there is anything but "continuity without deviation". As these passions for power are unleashed, what becomes evident is that what we wish we would have done was to opt for the more difficult task in discussing, with others and within ourselves, that which we were choosing to be unified. Simply stated, the group must put forth a vision and each individual must decide whether they can put aside selfish ambition to function in the group. Only then is there one purpose for which to live. Easier said than done.

Webster's explanation of unity requires self examination and exorcism of anything within ourselves that is contrary to the final goal or purpose to which a group has committed itself. Obviously, self control becomes a part of this process, but, is only beneficial when we have loyalty to the objective put forth among the members.

I have chosen to be a part of a group of devoted people who think they have a common goal, glorifying our Heavenly Father. I believe that truly is the desire of our group, however, sometimes we appear to be sidetracked. Let us consider what best exemplifies our purpose, decide whether or not that is what we believe, then act in that manner. Enough said.