The Breakfast Club

"When Job's three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite, heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him."
--Job 2:11

I see a lot of people ranting & raving on social media platforms about "staying in their own lane," which doesn't seem to be a bad idea in the text of "minding your own business," and not sowing discord. But then I see the phrase, "solo dolo" accompanied by that. I assume as a way of saying, "I'm doing life by myself!" Basically, suggesting that one "isolates" themselves from others. So I wonder, how is that working for them?

It definitely never worked for me. Being a "loner" wasn't much fun, and I don't think God created us to be "social beings" without having "social support!" I mean, why are there millions of people in the world, if we didn't need others? Why are there teachers, doctors and lawyers? (If we don't need anyone else). Why do people get married? (If they don't desire companionship).

So is doing life "SOLO" an excuse not to "serve others?"

We live in a society where "everyone" gets on our nerves. Our lack of "patience" is evident, when it comes to anyone, outside of our household.

We don't have time for sob stories, whining, needs, lacks or inconveniences.
We don't want to hear the poor or pitiful speak out.
We don't want to hear other's problems, yet we want someone to listen to ours.

We vent, we complain, and we try others' patience as well. We tell others, "You can always talk to me!" But do we really take time to listen? Is listening a priority in these fast, paced multi-tasking times?

When someone commits suicide, the first thing people say is.--I wonder why they didn't talk to someone? Well, when people ask for "help" are you available, or are you preoccupied with "self?" You never know the value of a simple conversation. It could literally be the difference between "life or death." If you don't have time for others, how do you make time for God? Maybe "service" isn't at the top of the priority list for some, not all.

Every week, I connect with a group of Christian women, at a local restaurant to discuss any and everything under the sun. We discuss biblical principles, life, health and well-being. If someone is experiencing a problem, then we offer support. We may not have all the answers, but we are available to the needs of others in a safe, confidential environment. These women are missionaries on an assignment to change the world by "showing up!" They don't turn a blind eye to the needs of others. There isn't an inconvenience of time, because they make it a priority to serve God through their act of service to others. Sometimes, we sit there for hours, just talking. Some may think it's a waste of energy, but it's really beneficial to everyone in the group. It's apart of our healthy, self-care regime. We don't come with hidden agendas. We come to serve!

When I first started attending this group, I came with little expectation. I wasn't looking to gain anything but as a means of social interaction. For the sake of confidentiality, I'll refer to them as "The Breakfast Club." I sat quietly, getting a feel for everyone with little contribution, but as I grew more comfortable with them, I began to share. They welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like family. At first, all the hugging made me feel just a little bit uncomfortable, because I wasn't accustomed to it. Now, I find myself extending my arms for a hug first. Wow, talk about change! These women are slowly helping me evolve. I may be turning into a social butterfly after all!

Everyone needs a "Breakfast Club" in their life. Whether you meet weekly, monthly or quarterly, you need the intimate setting of social support. Life is not an easy journey, but relationships make it meaningful. You don't have to pay membership dues to join an organization, fill out applications for acceptance, fit into a particular social class, political entity or demographic. You just have to be committed to "serving" the needs of others.

Stop soliciting people for their time and attention, God will send you the help that you need.

He sent me more than I imagined. Being an only child, I've always wanted a sister, but now I have an army of them! Isn't that just like God to give you "more" than you could ever ask?

Stay encouraged, as you pray for that trustworthy army of willing vessels, that will feely love you without malice or ill intentions.