Be first

I was listening to a therapist discuss his new book earlier today. He talked about our need to reclaim community among other things. He discussed his concept of radical generosity, deciding to give more than you receive. And then he said the key to building community was to “be first.” Invite the neighbor over first. Start a conversation with that kid in your class first. Just jump in and be first.

I​ loved hearing this. In a way it’s a retelling of the golden rule. If we approach others as we would like to be approached, then we are quick to see their need and not our own. We have less pride and are willing to put ourselves forward. Not everyone will respond the way we’d like and not all plans will work out. But still be first.

I​ remember my grandma counseling a young woman who came to her with a burden of loneliness and despair. She told her to reach out to others, to find people to serve. There was a profoundness in this advice that I didn’t realize at the time. If we want to cure our own heart, we do it best by looking after others.

S​o today I am determined to ‘be first.’

L​uke 6: 31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.