The other day I was at a party.
About 250 people there, most of whom I knew.
Well, “knew” is a bit overrated. I know their names, what they do, that’s it.
Occasions like this remind me of my true nature.
As much as I love the crowds and their energy, as much as everyone says I am an extrovert and people-person – deep down inside there is this shy girl that can’t handle the masses, the noise, the superficial talk over and over again.
And the more I come to think of it, the more I’m okay with it.
I’m okay with not being okay in big crowds.
I’m okay with not connecting with everyone and talking with as many people as possible.
People and their relationships are an interesting thing.
How and when do we connect with others?
Most of the people I met at that party were there because we all do the same thing – teach.
We sit together in classes, we laugh at the same jokes, we spend our breaks together. For this assigned time we live in this bubble together and feel like we’re the best friends ever.
But after class ends, when everyone goes home to their own lives, we are not.
We are just two people who might run into each other on the street, say hello, move on.
We need people like this in our lives.
Whatever we may call them (acquaintances, friends, temporary friends…), we need people to walk alongside us for a specific time. It doesn’t have to be much, not very intense, it’s just there for the moment. When this time ends – how many of these relationships will survive?
We can’t survive on these crowds, on mere acquaintances, superficial talks.
We need something more.
Deeper connection. Scratching below the surface. Taking off our masks.
People we want to invest in, pour our time and soul into.
People who invest in and pour into us.
Walk through the light and the heavy days together.
Cheer each other on in tough times, rejoice over victories.
It doesn’t have to be the crowds, it only takes a few.
Ten people, maybe only three or five.
Maybe only one.
Are you a crowd or a “ten’s enough” person? Who pours into your life? Who do you choose to invest in?
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Yes, sometimes there's just nothing…So glad we're still connected!
This sounds great! Thanks, Barbie!
Oh yes, we do need both and I definitely think we are called to minister to many others. I guess a balance of both to be drained AND refreshed is good!
Thanks, Denise!
That's understandable! I remember my share of piano lessons…
I like your take on this prompt! I was thinking about linking up this week, but there was just nothing about “ten” that sparked a post for me. So glad to have shared some “beyond superficial” moments with you!
Great points! I love to be invited to large gatherings, but I much prefer a crowd of ten or even less. There is a group of seven of us who meet for movie night and dinner in homes each month. My core group!
I see the need for both. We are pastors so we are with the large crowd and move among them easily but my energy comes from being quiet and with few people. Crowds drain me quickly but I also know that is where He calls us so He gives us the strength to do all things even live among the crowd! 🙂 Thanks for these good words! (stopping by from #FMF) Happy Friday to you!
very awesome post.
Ten is enough for me. I teach piano and have a constant stream of children at my door. After they go home my husband and I just like to be alone. The people who pour into my life are few but rich and deep. Thank-you for your insights.