Relationship Learning

I was impacted by the story of Rhodessa Jones.  I love how she stated she wanted to make a difference with her work. I guess for all of us that resonates - we want to make a difference. So often our idea of making a difference is not at all what others need.  We go into community and see what we think is important, what is broken and how we can fix it.  For Rhodessa, she rushed in and started over sharing about her life. In spite of her behavior, the women responded to her and they began to develop a relationship.  Sometimes that isn't always the case. Often we rush in and over step our boundaries and violate trust.  I value this story because it is a reminder to be invited and welcomed into community. By waiting and developing those relationships, which take time, we can truly make a difference.

There is a saying "rules without relationship leads to rebellion."  As we go into a community to assist them, if our agenda is more important than the people and their needs, it can look like we have rules.  Although a community may not rebel, they can certainly withhold the relationship.  I believe it is critical to remind ourselves why we are there and what it is we hope for that community. But more importantly, what do they envision for themselves.  And how can I or others assist in helping them achieve their dreams and goals?   I also feel that building these relationships doesn't occur over night and we can expect resistance until trust is built. The greatest lesson I can remember is that my time frame, my ideas, and my goals are far less important than the people I encounter.  Maybe then I can be the difference!