We seldom think of how important a person is who cleans the building after the rest of us have gone home for the night. People come in and go out of our lives like two ships passing in the night. We see and may even blow our huge foghorns (wave) at one another but that is the end of our knowing. We all have names and we are all humans with human thoughts and human hopes. Too, we are all important to those who love us and call us family. Outside of the family we have friends, some close and some we call acquaintances. People may not be a member of our family but they are still people. People who were born to earth and received a spirit upon entering the womb. A spirit that came from a place where Heavenly Father dwells. A place we refer to as the pre-earth world. They are humans too! In other words they are important and seek recognition and friendship
The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the “Peanuts” comic strip. You don’t have to actually answer the questions. Just read his points straight through, and you’ll get the idea.
- Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
- Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
- Name the last five winners of the Miss America.
- Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
- Name the last half dozen Academy Award winner for best actor and actress.
- Name the last decade’s worth of World Series winners.
How did you do?
The point is, few of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten.
Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners. Here’s another quiz. See how you do on this one:
- List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
- Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
- Name five people who have taught you something worth while.
- Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
- Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.
Easier?
The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care.
However, regardless of whether we know others and are friends, people we care about, we have to set boundaries. Where people do not set defined boundaries, they are those who are led and enticed to do those things that alienate family, other friends, and eventually the law. We teach others how to treat us by how we treat them. If we allow people to walk all over us, take without giving and push us into situations that feel uncomfortable or even invite drama into our lives, we teach them and others that it is acceptable to do so. Thus, they will continue to do it. We have to clearly define what is acceptable and set firm boundaries, we set the bar on what it takes for them to stay in our lives. Respect your own personal boundaries by not crossing them yourselves and never allowing others to cross them.
Without predetermined limitations or boundaries, we are not sure how to respond when we are challenged to step out of those bounds. The bounds approved or determined by parents, church, community, and law. They are our answer to help us avoid inappropriate behaviors we should be ready always.