My Wish for Us in 2026
Better Relationships
In 1938, Harvard University launched what has become the longest running study on adult human development. For eighty + years, researchers followed 724 men and their descendants through interviews, physical exams, blood tests, brain scans, and stress diagnostics. Robert Waldinger and Marc Shulz arrived at a simple yet powerful conclusion:“Good relationships make us healthier and happier. Period.”
Like most journeys in leadership, this last year, as I dove into the sanctifying process of writing The Way of Befriending, it started with my own story. I had to take an inventory of my friendships and most importantly, evaluate the type of friend I am. As painful as it was to revisit relational wounds and longings, I had to wrestle with the following questions:
Am I a faithful friend?
Am I a truthful friend?
If we are to believe ancient jewish scripture, Ecclesiates (6:14-17) tells us that nothing compares to a faithful friend. Such a find is the medicine of life and the person who finds it, has found a treasure.
The thing about treasures is that they dwell in unexpected places. Old homes, and basements. Buried amid what we often disregard or consider worthless.
What a shame! What a loss when we miss out on a great find.
My wish and longing for us this year is that we diligently look for and find the life medicine of truthful and faithful friendship in unexpected places. And, that we be such a treasure to those who stumble upon us.
Here is a song I wrote titled a Friend To You!
Hope it inspires you to befriend and be that friend.