Social Settings: Re-engage/re-appraise - Part 2

Social Settings is our topic this week, which can always stump a guy … hmmm do I take the place setting of silverware on my right or left? Better yet, when setting the table does the fork go on the right or the left (right, right?)?  What about the knife and spoon - left, I think (psst, it's the right). Funny as my silverware setting is intended to be, it is not funny when we blurt out unwise word choices, untimely comments, noises, inappropriate behavior or touches – these actions can make for REALLY awkward social settings. Adults should be mindful and think ahead, yet a child often responds immediately to their environment and simply acts out what’s been modeled (to our horror).
 
Adolescent years are awkward enough at school, dances, and parties.  That’s not all bad.  Seriously, take a deep breath and smile. In fact, it’s the smooth “Fonzie” kind of guy that you’d better keep your eye on including the “Eddie Haskell’s” … “good morning Mrs. Cleaver”. Social etiquette and common courtesies are cultural, and Lord knows we’ve become lax in these areas as a global community.
 
Let’s stick to the test of time, the scriptures, and commit to the “One Anothers” of scripture such as:

• “love one another" (John 13:34,35)
• "prefer one another" (Rom. 12:10)
• "comfort one another" (2 Cor. 1:4)
• "pray for one another" (James 5:16)
• "encourage one another" (1 Thess. 5:11)
• "accept one another" (Rom 15:7)
•  let’s not forget, "don’t judge one another" (Rom. 14:13)

Well, the list goes on to at least 35 different “one anothers” just in the New Testament. We get to live the “One Anothers” out here at Camp as campers and staff interact and just laugh a lot ... a whole lot. Let’s not take ourselves and others too seriously. Seriously embracing the “One Anothers” of scripture will take the edge off of awkward social settings.
 

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Camper Corner:  Alright, yes it’s hard to include the socially awkward person in our comfort zones, but stop, look and listen to their point of view. Take a moment and consider how you could genuinely be a blessing to them. An ear, a smile or a simple hello could change both of your lives. Let’s live a life of impact for something bigger than our own comfort – let’s do it for God’s Glory and His Spectacularness!