Mary Lou, Barry, and Michael Who?
Attention – Conveying appropriate interest, concern, and care; taking thought of another; entering another’s “world.”
Who Wore the Same Uniform and Was on Your Team – Giving It 110%
Any sports or entertainment “icons” that were/are your favorites? Though he didn’t win a super bowl or many championships, I so enjoy watching YouTube videos of Barry Sanders. Ever heard of him? He was a running back for the Detroit Lions for about 10 years and decided to quit while still in his prime. I have rarely seen any running back make the moves, stay on his feet after a hit, or accelerate like Barry Sanders.
Remember Mary Lou Retton? In the era when I was paying more attention to the Olympics and gymnastics in particular, Mary Lou was the best in my book. That little lady could fly and left impressions of greatness when she performed.
Another “icon” I enjoy watching is Michael Jordan. That guy seems to be able to stay in the air longer than others (perhaps it is due to the slow motion I am watching on the replays. 🙂 and make key baskets when needed. He also seemed to enjoy the process.
Neither of these athletes could have done what they did all by themselves. They needed a team. They had other key players, coaches, and family helping them do what they do/did. After reading or re-reading the definition of Approval, would you answer this question: Who entered your world and gave assistance in your early years for you to become the adult you are today? I am not asking you who held you back, but who put wind in your sails or a boost when you needed it?
I want you to consider with me this week – and beyond if you can – who in your world you can come alongside to enter their world and help them feel loved, known, and cared for?
My wife Carol is the one from whom I have learned the most about entering another person’s world. I had very little idea what it meant to give Attention to another until 22 years into our marriage. Oh, of course, I did meet her need for attention at times but to really, intentionally enter her world was a journey I am still traveling to this day.
What is “her world” anyway? How can I enter that world if I don’t know her priorities, how she feels loved, and what is important to her….that I can provide?
Carol’s world:
1. Kids and grandkids – so I try to make time for us to be with our grandkids together or give her time to be with our daughters and son where possible
2. Reading/Time to Think – We read together for a while most nights…when we can stay awake. She loves to spend early mornings with God in reading and prayer.
3. Serving / Cooking – I try to help her when she is preparing a meal and stay available to get things for her to make her job easier. She has grown in confidence cooking new recipes. I have a tough time losing weight because she is great at fixing meals.
4. Exercise – we walk together most mornings. That is an acquired skill. I didn’t like walking but realized when we walk, we talk. It also encourages her to keep going.
5. Me – I am a priority to her. That feels really nice to be able to say that. She likes for me to be clear when she asks what I want for a meal, or what time I want to have a meal – dinner usually. I can tell she wants to make me happy. Wow, that makes me happy!
Get the idea? Not rocket science, but entering another’s world is really important. When you do, they are not alone, you have a chance to know each other more deeply, you can accomplish life together as a team. When you and he/she are in the same world, you are playing on the same team. You are creating a super star in your relationship. You are loving like Jesus loves.