Friday Five: Connecting

 

Jan at Rev Gal Blog Pals writes:

I am currently reading Bowling Alone by Robert D. Putnam, where he explores the changes in community in the USA in the 20th Century. He explains how communities, people, and especially children function better when they live where there is high social capital. Basically, it means that "relationships matter."
We all know this because Christianity (and other religions) emphasize the Golden Rule:

All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you,
do ye so to them; for this is the law and the prophets.
Matthew 7:1

So here are some questions to ponder for this Friday Five about connecting with:

1. Self: Who was your hero/heroine when you were about ten years old?

No one person particularly stands out at this age although there have been many mentors and Sunday School teachers over the years who helped mold and shape me.

2. Family: Who are you most like? Who is most like you?

Having just attended the funeral for an uncle on my mother’s side, I am constantly amazed at how much my cousins and I have in common – even though we’ve shared precious little time together over the years. We seem to have inherited a gene for singing and a love for music and a host of mannerisms and a constant faith in God. We are truly blessed.

3. Friends: How do you stay in touch?

Facebook has definitely helped with communication. My constant companion in seminary use the time spent on road trips making catch-up calls. This year we were able to spend a few days together – although it was as usual, interrupted by drama. This time a surprise wedding and the realization that my Father would be going to his eternal rest in only a short time.

4. Neighborhood, community: What are ways you like to be involved?

Football games seem to be a place where everyone gathers – although for most of my friends, it’s the band that is the big attraction.

5. Job/church: Do you see a need that will help in developing connections?

We were the recipients of a community memorial gift this summer – a pavilion in memory of Susan McAndrew. Susan knew what it meant to love God and your neighbor. It is our hope that we will spend more time together as a result.

Bonus: A link or anything else about connecting.

And remember today is BLOG ACTION DAY!