Yesterday, I made a new friend. I got out of my car and a guy was walking down the sidewalk. We exchanged '‘how ya'’ doings?'’ and both of us did not break stride. He replied, "“I'’ve been better.'” I stopped.
This moment could have easily passed with nothing more. We did not know each other. We were just being neighborly. But what developed was a 2 or 3 hour conversation some was spent in the parking lot and the remainder over lunch. My new friend was without hope. His girlfriend left him. The relationship looked irreparable. He had not seen his baby boy in more than a week. He had begun to doubt whether he would be allowed to see him. He pulled out yet another job rejection. He talked. I listened and asked questions. Our exchange really made my day. His whole demeanor seemed to have brightened. My spirits were lifted - I know it sounds weird - but they were lifted by talking to someone feeling hopeless.
How many times do we pass by people? How many occasions each week do we bypass someone who is hurting who needs conversation. Not counseling. Not rescuing. We need conversation and community. Pay attention to those cliche's people speak around you. Do more than simple "act friendly" be a friend.
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