When we play together, we find ourselves returning to the balance of "being together" more than "just doing." Play, says Mark Twain, can be the same activity, but the conditions are different. I think what "playing" really is - our heart condition celebrates being with those God has brought into our lives. Have you ever played a game that wasn't fun? What took the refreshing, recharging, fun out of it? The condition of our heart will determine if you learn to play together - growing deeper in friendship, or just keep struggling and trying to work it out.
Read Ephesians 4 (note verses 4, then 12-16). We are protected from the storms of life by the various strengths of God's body around us. The goal is a "oneness," a "belonging" that make us family throughout eternity.
Conner's story is one of a family that has built a massive team! They are active helping others build a team too. They have learned to play, that is celebrate being together and accepting the friendship and love God has given. Watch their video and visit the links. Then let what God is doing in their lives cheer you on to ALL He has planned for you. This family is a living legacy that "Being together" will always be more important than any "to do" list we may have! Thank you Sarah for sharing your family's story!
Please bring some Legos to church next week so we can fill up Conner's room with them (it's one of his big dreams).
Here are a couple links so you can pray, cheer on, and invest in this family: Sarah's blog and Conner's "Caring Bridge" web site.
How to Super-Size a date (with the Love of your life):
1. Adventure (Great, over-night dates should have the element of adventure added) - Adventure is different for every person. Explore what it "looks like" to that special "man" in your life.
2. Romance (Often there are settings and places that naturally add romance) - Both men and women need this, but guys, listen to what is "romantic" to your wife - try that first!
3. Relational checkup (Learning to build your own "relationship statement," like a monthly "bank statement" will keep you from going bankrupt in your friendship). Laura and I have often done the "List 3 things you're glad I've been doing this last month." We also never get tired of making a list of things the other person "adds" to our life and then sharing them over a fantastic dessert (on the coast).
If you don't know how to find adventure or create a romantic setting, try asking someone who does (seek to build a team of experts in all your relationships).
Bonding 1, 2, 3: Introduction
In 1962 Desmond Morris published a book on how humans bond (This study was of people groups all over the world). It stands, even today, as the definitive stufy of how humans bond. The first three stages of human human bonding, friendship, are so simple and natural; we all do them! It's how we meet and connect. And yet after people are in a relationship for a few years they often neglect these three steps of connecting.
Check back on Tuesday for the the simple ways you can keep adding to your friendships. I'll talk through each of these first 3 stages (also: I'll share the way almost all moms first play with their babies - we'll discuss why it's so important, and how the same core principles can be applied to all our friendships). Please check back on Tuesday!
Just for fun: Check out Bruce's blog - "My new running shoes" saga (with pictures:)
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