Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Lessons learned from children

We have two young children that live next door. They're both very friendly to David and I, and love to play with Allie across the fence. Tonight my friend Laurel and her two kids came over for dinner and we spent some time outside. The instant the neighbor kids saw Will and Megan in our back yard they dropped what they were doing and were at the fence making new friends, inviting Will over to play and asking if they could come over and play. I really enjoyed watching this unfold, all the while wondering when exactly it is that we (adults) lose that quality. It made no difference that these children had never seen each other before; they just knew they had their age in common so they figured it would be fun to play together. I wish I could be more like that, and why in the world am I not? As I approach this move to Minnesota I think about all of the new relationships that I'll be starting and the new friends that I'll be making. To be very honest, it stresses me out a little. It's a lot easier to just be content with the relationships and friends that I already have. Unfortunately, they're not all moving to Minnesota with me, so I'm going to have to branch out and start all over again. I hope that I can learn from the kids next door and approach meeting new people with the fearless positive attitude that they had tonight.

2 comments:

Jaena said...

I know what you mean, Melissa. I find myself not branching out and initiating relationships sometimes because it is out of my comfort zone (let alone being in a new place like you will be.) I will be praying that you will have the God-given boldness to take risks and that God will bless you with amazing friendships.

ben price said...

hey guys, Ben Price here.

my folks live in the TCs now, we love the area--even thought of relocating in a few. We'd love to hook up in Sept when we will be up that way. Check out the update on the blog to get the latest on the fam. We are excited about your move and will be praying that friendships come fast and fulfill you both.

Love ya, Benj