Meeting part 4
A successful meeting happens when we find common ground. I've said already that we can't expect people to come up to where we're at. Because while we're all running the same race, so to speak, we aren't all on the same lap. We aren't even all following the same path. So we can't expect people to be where we're at. But we CAN use where we've BEEN at to meet people where they're at. We can use common experiences. "I've been there, done that, got the t-shirt." And if I've been through what you're going through--rather than expecting you to already be through it--I can HELP you through it. Remember, a map is nice but a guide is priceless. When you know the way, you can show someone the way. When you have experience--and can I just say? A man with an experience is never at the mercy of a man with an argument. Heart knowledge trumps head knowledge every time. KNOWING something, because you've experienced it, is different than "knowing" something because you've heard about it, or read about it, or what have you. So when you have experience you can use that experience to help. Its not, "I know this already, how come you don't?" Its, "I know this, let me show you this." And even still people might not always be ready for your help. That's ok. Its hard, and its frustrating, and it doesn't FEEL ok... but its ok. Its not your job to fix everything. You can't reach everybody. But if you plant a seed--of love--chances are someone else will water it. You might never know what happens with that seed. But that's ok too. You don't need to know everything. All you need to do is meet people where they're at and give them what you've got. Try to give them what they need, but remember that you can't give what you don't have. I know I'm not for everybody. And that's ok. Because while there are some people I absolutely cannot reach... there are some people I am uniquely qualified and positioned to reach. For example: my family. The people in my home. They say charity starts at home and I'm a big believer in that. Mother Teresa said, "If you want to change the world, go home and love your family." Those are your strongest connections. And it is through our connections that we can truly reach people. If people know you care about them, they'll be able to hear you. And the best way to show you care is to see a need and meet it. Don't make people jump through hoops. Jump through hoops for people! Show them that you care by laying your life down for them. Sacrificial love. Give them everything you have and everything you are. That's what love is. Love is giving. Giving yourself. People are, let's be real, self-centered. Its hard to see past yourself and your needs. So when someone steps up--or lays down--to meet you where you're at... to meet those needs... that's powerful. That's... love!