Mosaic...Fractured or Whole?

Independence and individuality are given such value in our society but at what cost? It leads to being 'disconnected' and fragmented. We've lost our sense of being part of a community as we strive and search for something to make sense. Relationships are valued for what they can do for 'me'. But that pragmatic view turns ugly when we see how quickly we discard any relationship that is not fulfilling 'my' needs. Divorce has become commonplace. Unborn babies are literally discarded.

But the truth is relationships are fundamental in our lives. We need them. It's true that every relationship has the risk of breaking apart and causing all kinds of stress and pain. But a good relationship is so valuable that most of us are willing to take the risk...drawn to the possibilities and potential.

It is interesting how many bloggers are stay-at-home Moms! That makes sense as working Moms probably don't have an abundance of 'free' time and have less need for adult interaction after spending a day with co-workers, customers, etc. But blogging allows a real network of friendships to develop and that's part of what draws us to it: a colorful mosaic of people and ideas.

Our need for community becomes more clear all the time. It becomes more important to invest in friendships..to not get too busy or to be satisfied with superficial friendliness. I spent a couple of hours with one friend recently and for sure I smiled the rest of the day - loving life and refreshed.

But above all there is one relationship that has no risk. It is a relationship that encourages and refreshes like no other. It is a relationship that should be sought out and invested in above all others. And it does take investment...time, effort, priority, sacrifice.

A close relationship with our Creator is worth everything. And it costs everything. It's counter-culture; sacrifice, undeserved kindness, need, brokeness, humility and unconditional love become the words we live by. And it will absolutely turn our lives upside down. But what have we got to lose?

Within that relationship lies the key to a rich abundant life - full of meaning and purpose, full of joy and refreshment. Drawn close to our Creator we find ourselves close to each other. Is the mosaic of our intertwined lives fractured or whole; ruined pieces or art?

Note: This was a post I wrote one day and then for the fun of it, sent it as an entry in Marla Swoffer's "Intellectuelle" contest.