Lessons Learned on the Journey

Right Relationships at the Heart of Life

Right relationships, often small and sometimes unseen, are critical to our well being.

		Walking becomes a chore when my muscles and ligaments are out of relationship after I have a twisted an ankle.
		As I travel across many time zones, the delicate physiological balance between the hormonal transmitters and the feedback system, that tells me when it is day and when it is night, becomes unhinged. The result - sleepless nights and daytime fatigue.

Even virtues that are not in correct relationship can become dangerous.

		Thrift in excess becomes miserliness.
		Compassion without wise reasoning or strategy can cause waste.
		Even "moderation" out of balance can end up dull and passionless.

Dare I even mention the importance of balance in our relationships with spouses, other family members and friends? I am the first to admit that when my attitudes are out of balance, unaligned, and unhinged, havoc takes on tornado quality.

Spiritual health also finds its anchor in right and balanced relationships. Doctrine or rituals, although important, do not fill our souls. Only right relationship with God satisfies completely.

After an expert in the law answered his own question about inheriting eternal life with "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus replied, "You have answered correctly. Do this and you will LIVE." (Luke 11:27-28)

Right relationship is at the heart of life. Are we alive and well?