I cannot remember when or how our friendship started. On the surface, we did not share much in common. In our first meeting, the informality and craziness of it all worked to our advantage. Each was intentionally who they were. The differences between our backgrounds suggested to others that we were unlikely to get along. Yet, something happened then and now. As I look back on the years, I never suspected that this was somebody that I would come to count as a friend long after our formal working relationship ended.
Reflecting on the why and how, it is clear that there were certain things we did in the beginning that made a difference. It was as if we had heard a Wisdom Father’s writings; “I have a serious concern to bring up with you, my friends, using the authority of Jesus, our Master. I’ll put it as urgently as I can: You must get along with each other. You must learn to be considerate of one another, cultivating a life in common.” (1 Corinthians 1.10)
In the consideration, I discovered someone who was always interested in learning and growing. We shared a love for knowledge. A bond developed as we listened to others that offered us unique perspectives and insights. It was as if we discovered in the other that there was more than either of us had.
In seeing to get along, I found someone who was willing to work with me and I with him. I do not think I always had a reason to work on his projects. I do know that I always came away better for the effort.
In exploring what we might have in common, we discovered there was much we had in common. Our upbringing, values, and even birthdays were the same. It was as if I found someone I knew could trust in all situations. If I needed an ear, he came to listen. If I needed a perspective, he asked me a question I had not thought of.
Our conversation continues. I am richer for it.
