In my last blog I shared several thoughts on how to more effectively connect with others. I have learned some valuable and practical lessons from so many individuals that I respect. I would like to share one more with you.
5.) Connect more than you meet
I first met Mark Brewer in the gym of a church that I was staying at for a stateside missions trip. There were about 60 people in the room from 10 different churches/colleges. I remember him walking up to me and introducing himself. He then proceeded to introduce the 4 or 5 other people that were in his circle. Although he talked about these people like they were his best friends, I soon discovered that he had just met them as well. A couple minutes later Mark walked to another group of people. I continued to talk with the group I was with but I watched as Mark repeated the process of introducing himself, getting to know people, then introducing these people to new people. I studied Mark as he did this. Within 20 minutes the entire gym had met each other and was full of friends and not strangers. Mark has a way of making it a smaller world. It is a true gift.
Learn more than you teach
Listen more than you talk
Add more than you take
Care more than you are cared for
Connecting is more than a technique. As I reflect on this list I see a pattern of looking beyond myself and putting the focus on others. The amazing thing is that the result makes me stronger.
