One of the things I’ve learned from the World Race is that living with people is hard. Getting along with people and working with them and handling your feelings and how they interact, it’s all hard. And I knew this before the race, but now I know it in a whole new way. I suppose the race is a practical application of some things, you may not actually want to apply. It’s having to deal with things because you really can’t run away.
So, with that I’ll share some lessons I’ve learned from my former teammates. (We had a team change at the beginning of this month, so I’m now learning from new people). Some feel obvious, others not so obvious, some are new, others not new at all; either way things I want to remind myself of going forward.
- Speak up about problems with people because you love them and want to see them grow, not to make your life easier
- People are annoying, but that’s not all they are. Love them for who they are, not what they do
- Laugh it off
- Grace. You have received much, you should give!
- There are some things about people you’re never going to get
- Love does not need to be naïve, don’t let anyone manipulate you
- Giving someone grace in their struggle, often looks like doing more work
- People are often struggling, be willing to see it
- Not everything needs to be said
- Don’t not speak because it’s easier
- Sometimes you say what you need to say and then be patient. They make take some time to come around
- Seek first the kingdom. The rest doesn’t matter or will be taken care of.
- People are worth a little extra money. Gifts are always good.
- Listen between the words
- Rest in the Lord, not people
I suppose I’ll get better at this over time.
