A few years ago, I was having lunch with a friend of mine. I asked him how he was doing and he said he was “great.” He then asked me how I was doing. I hesitated at first but then I answered honestly. I was doing it tough and so I told him about it. The depth of our conversation changed immediately. He thanked me for my openness. Sadly, near the end of our time together he admitted that he was going through some challenges too … but he never had the courage to tell anyone.
Authenticity is very important. It’s about being honest, real, and transpearant … no masks, no hiding, no pretending.
This is not easy – after all we’re into “image projection” and “impression management.” We have a strong tendency to hide and to want to look better than we really are. But what good does that do?
The level of intimacy or closeness in any relationship is directly related to the level of openness in that relationship.
Be open, honest and real. Share how you are really doing … with a safe person, a trusted friend.
Authenticity … think about it.
Thank you Mark for such a short but important blog post. Every person in Citylife has helped me open up and become more honest when talking to someone. Jesus may be my Saviour, but church has shown me how my Saviour has saved me.
Thanks Mark. I hear your heart. We all need a safe person, especially when life is tough and unfair. This treasure I have found @ City Life.
Hi Mark,
I just found your blog. You don’t need to post this, it is a personal note to you. I didn’t know how else to contact you. My name is Cerise Barber. I attended Bible Temple (now known as City Church, I believe) in Portland, Oregon from 1972 – 1975. I remember seeing you as a ‘carrot-topped’ young boy of 8 or 10 years. I bet, like Anne of Green Gables, you were very glad your hair color calmed down as you grew older 🙂 Sorry, I couldn’t resist. . .anyway I just want to say what a blessing it is to see you grow up and take on the calling of being a pastor. Your father was/is such a remarkable person and amazing Bible expositor – I STILL recall a bit of a sermon he preached back then, as he raised one arm over his head and raised the other arm with his fingertipds meeting “mercy and truth are met together, righteousness and peace have kissed. . .”. I remember we were all in awe of the anointing on his sermons, struck by the hard things he endured growing up, and yet how his faith came out, tried like gold in the fire of his affliction. God bless you! It is wonderful to see that you have children that your father can take joy in. . .God bless you and keep you strong in the power of His love and truth.
Sincerely, Cerise Barber
Hi Cerise. Nice to hear from you. Yes, they were some good days together in the old ‘Bible Temple’ on Glisan Street there in Portland. I have many good memories,.
Thanks for saying hello … and all the best!
Thanks for your encouragement, Alice and Marija. Appreciate it!
You’re welcome Mark.
No problem:)