We’ve been miseducated.  From very early on, we’ve been guided to base friendships on mutual affections and proclivities.  We learned to establish relationships with those with whom we shared common interests, hobbies, or at least backgrounds. 

It’s totally understandable. And there’s nothing wrong with wanting to be around people ‘like’ us, who will agree with and affirm us.  But when our circle of friends becomes an echo chamber, we may be in trouble.

We need contrasts to create distinction. And distinction allows for clarity.  We need to be challenged, critiqued, and corrected every once in a while.  We need those who will say things that might make us uncomfortable but are actually meant for our good. We need friends who risk encountering our rage, rather than lie to us.  We need people who stretch us. We need friendships that provide creative tension that inspires us to grow.

Everyone who agrees with you is not your friend.  And everyone who disagrees is not an adversary.  Sometimes it’s the exact opposite!

The proverb writer says it like this:

⁶ Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy. 

Proverbs 27:6

Good Morning, I love you all!

ihs,

just adam