The content of my weekly blogs is drawn primarily from ancient Hebrew wisdom literature, while the 2020 format was inspired by James Clear’s “3-2-1” Thursdays. Building from my recent book UNBEATABLE! Seven Pillars of Personal Excellence, each week you will receive One Pillar/Proverb, One Principle and One Practical.
One Pillar/Proverb
“Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.”
One Principle
Ice Cream. Donuts. Cheesecake. Brownies. These aren’t exactly your healthiest food choices, but they all have at least one thing in common: they’re sweet. Our taste buds are attracted to sweetness.
About three years ago, in an article entitled “Why do we like the sweet stuff so much?” the Economic Times reminded us that during the period in human history when mankind inhabited the forests, sweetness in food, interestingly, indicated that it was safe to eat. How things have changed. The result was that our brains developed what has become known as the Reward Pathway with the effect that eating sweet things was associated with pleasure.
I wonder, though, whether we view genuine friendships as being just as tasty. How are your relationships going? I’m not talking about the superficial associations with people that you see from day to day. I’m referring to that handful of truly profound connections with those persons who are the voices of wisdom and reason in your life. They aren’t harsh or rude with you. They just always seem to speak to your heart, even when you try to hide how you’re really doing. Keep them close.
One Practical
Give yourself the next 24 hours to think about one person in your life who is truly dear to you because they know you like few others do. More than that, they seem to know how to go beneath the surface of your heart. Send him or her a short note of gratitude this week.
To learn more about these pillars of personal excellence, read UNBEATABLE! which is now available on Amazon in print and as an e-book.
This Post Has 8 Comments
Thanks for today’s blog Tyrone and it’s focus on loving friendships/relationships. It gave me room for thought regarding how vulnerable I am with those I feel I am closest to. There is definitely room for improvement.
Sure thing Donna. Building true and genuine friendships is a worthwhile long-term investment. I, too, look forward to making improvements in my own relationships.
Thank you Tyrone. My mind ran to Jamaica when I thought immediately the person who understands me. Although miles apart and not seeing each other often or communicating often, meaningful friendships last whether you are close or near. Thank you.
That is so true Michelle. When the depth of friendship is there, then the foundation is strong so that not even distance can separate you.
Wow, as i get older the number of persons in my life who are truly dear to me dwindles:
Well my best fiend is still here and closer (my wife) – to God be the glory.
But but I do need to reconnect one particular brother – so my challenge is to to also link him up as well …. Thanks JTM.
No problem Andre. It is indeed a blessing to have your wife as your best friend. Treasure her. At the same time, it’s great to have those other friends who know us intimately and can bring out the best in us. I am encouraged by your decision to reconnect with that brother that you have in mind.
Thanks for the encouragement. I find that friendship are indeed important, but it can be hard to work on.
No problem, Shawn. The hard work is worth it when we consider that life is all about relationships.