Tip of My Iceberg

Babies typically aren’t born with smiles. People have explained that an early grin is just a matter of gas, not an intentional attitude of joy.

Babies learn to respond as they grow, connecting with those who interact with them, figuring out what works to bring the best responses from those they’re with. Because God made us for community, we grow as we interact with the people in our lives.

Thea, our newest grand, is a prodigy. At seven weeks, she’s grinning ear to ear.

Am I biased? Of course. But it delights me to see her enjoy those around her, responding with smiles she’s watched family show her for weeks on end.

Every one of us learns how to deal with life because of the people who have populated our stories. Families of origen, friends, teachers, neighbors–all the people we come in contact with help us navigate how we make decisions and respond to life. What we want our best-foot forward to look like.

We learn to make choices based on the reactions others have to our decisions. My Dad was in the military, and he had high standards he learned from his time in the service–immediate response with obedience and respect. “Yes, sir” was standard in our responses. Anything less than that was a less than acceptable response.

I use “sir” and “m’am” consistently now, even to people a lot younger than myself. It’s a kindness that I’ve learned to offer others.

The fact that we’re that connected to others should give us pause in how we treat one another. Rather than judging those who are different from us, it might be to our advantage to discover what our common ground is rather than finding fault with how others are different from us.

Paul, in his letter to the Jewish Christians, many of whom had been persecuted for turning their backs on the teachings of the Jewish religious leaders, reminded them,

“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25

Paul was reminding us that encouraging one another will spur most people on to love and do good works for others. It’s an act of accountability, having someone say, “I see you, and I’m thrilled that you’re doing those wonderful things for others.” It’s amazing how invigorated we become when others notice the good things we do. It gives us boldness and courage to continue to do good.

Peter wrote to encourage Gentile Christians, those who came to know Jesus after His resurrection.

“Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. God has given each of you a gift from His great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” 1 Peter 4:8-10

Sharing who we are and what we have with others is an invitation to let people truly know us. We learn how to treat others well when we’re treated with compassion and kindness.

Thea is learning how to respond to her world, even at her young age. She’s encouraged when her family smiles back at her, sharing their enthusiasm for her grins.

We’re no different from Thea. We need the encouragement of others to see past ourselves and our issues so we might help others.

It’s a community thing.

It’s why we all need the chance to shine among those we care about.