Be You

 

They say old friends are the best friends.

 

I believe that's true because your old friends liked you before you became what you are today. Even if you've turned out to be a real jerk, they've still stuck with you. Old friends are the best friends, right?

 

I found out my old friend, Joe, had been diagnosed with brain cancer. His family was looking into surgery. I didn't know a lot of details, but I do remember he was reaching out to his friends for support and encouragement.

 

A lot of people like Joe, there's several who don't, too. He's outspoken, opinionated, and passionate. You don't have to guess where Joe stands on any given issue. He'll eventually tell you, whether you ask or not.

 

He'll also tell you he's right...and doesn't mind saying when you're wrong...especially when it comes to religion...and politics. Yeah, he's that guy. Maybe you know somebody like Joe.

 

Joe isn't trying to offend you; it's just that if you get offended, that's your problem, not his. He'll still be your friend regardless of which side of the fence you're on...his side or the wrong side. Joe loves you, even when you're acting like a stupid idiot.

 

Maybe it'll help you understand if I tell you, Joe is a preacher. You would have never guessed if you knew him back in High School, but he's grown into one of the most respected men in his highly-affluent community.

 

You'll often see Joe's picture in the community magazines, hear him speak at leadership events, or sometimes catch his opinions in the newspapers. He's kinda a big deal!

 

Joe's notoriety is due in large-part to living by the maxim, "People don't have to like you, and you don't have to care" that so many people do like him, love him, and do care about him and his family.

 

The other part being, Joe really does care deeply about people, and they know it because he backs up his words with action. I don't want to put words in his mouth, but Joe might say, "People don't have to like you, and you don't have to care that they don't like you to care for them anyway."

 

You can tell people just about anything you want if they know you care deeply about them.

 

I don't mind the preacher warning me I'm headed for destruction as long as he says it with tears dripping down his eyes. If the preacher is being harsh, simply for the sake of effect, I'll never listen to another word that preacher has to say, would you?

 

Say what you have to say with sincerity, an earnest compassion, and I'm listening intently.

 

 

Say what you have to say with compassion, so they hear the tears, and they'll listen to the hard stuff.

 

On the other hand, say what you have to say, however you want to say it, because you're right, or you're in charge, or you sign the checks, but without the tears, and you could lose them forever.

 

✌ Mike

 

P.S. I fully realize how many hard things I've said to you over the years. I've tried to type each word with tears in my eyes and give each consultation with compassion in my heart. I also realize that hasn't always happened.

 

Please forgive me for the times I've come across as too harsh or direct. I want you to find the success you're seeking and to be a part of your journey. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to be in your life. - Mike