Face Value

Do you know the value of a person in your life?

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If someone gives you a dollar, you immediately know that the value of that dollar is $1.  When people come in your life, your calculation of their value and importance is not that simple. Some people choose to judge people based on what they initially observe - their appearance, their speech, their put-togetherness, or even the environment they meet them in.
What if you approached everyone you meet with the attitude that they were placed in your life for a wonderful purpose and that your mission is to reveal that purpose?  Yes, this may be an initial investment on your part, but value and purpose are worth investing in.  Don't get me wrong.  Some relationships can be toxic. I'm not asking you to embrace everyone forever, but instead I'm asking you to give someone a little bit of your time and objectivity.   

Some people feel empowered by closing doors for others.  There is no empowerment in bringing strife or insecurity to someone else.  I recall the scenario where a seasoned employee was tasked to be the mentor of a new employee. Immediately, she did not like the new person. Instead of being a dedicated mentor, she went out of her way to prove that this person was not the right fit for the job. Nothing the new employee could do was right, and she did not provide the support to that person to help with success in the job. 

 Preconceived judgments often set the stage for limitations of progress.  What if she would have taken this person under her wing and guided her to success? Most interestingly, the new employee was a cancer survivor, and after she left, the mentor was diagnosed.  If she had embraced this person and helped her grow, she could have possibly earned an invaluable cancer warrior and prayer partner for her ultimate time of need.   I know cancer has no bounds and how it chooses its victims is a mystery, but the decision to invest in someone could have possibly earned her a friend in her most needed time. Help people release their potential.  Don't be an obstacle. 

Looking forward - I'm a firm believer that people come in your life for a reason.   Let me reiterate... I'm not talking to scare you into putting a chair at the table for every person you meet, but your time and your consideration can be assets.  Don't miss out on your blessing because you don't like how a person walked into a room or who they "appear" to be.  Try to get to know them. There is value in being approachable.  Simply treat people with kindness and respect.   Not everyone will become your best friend, but there is value in every experience. We learn by doing and grow by acting on opportunities.  See each personal encounter as an opportunity to gain a new friend.

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