When you and your group of friends of similar interest and goals gather and regard others as outsiders you can be described as a pack, circle, faction, clan, posse, and from two old French words “coterie” and “clique.” Words project images that can be broadly interpreted for good, bad or indifferent. What imagery does the word “clique” conjure up in you?
A tight group of friends can build good into your life and challenge you to grow and develop deep relationships. Proverbs 18:24, “a man of too many friends comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” and Proverbs 27:17 states that “Iron sharpens iron so one man sharpens another.” An inner circle of friends that have your best interest at heart is a treasure.
Facebook and our social mediums suggest that “belonging” is vital. Accepting or denying requests to be “friends” on Facebook is a daily occurrence. We are designed for community. How’s your band of brothers/sisters? Are you open to invite others? Do you build each other up or tear each other down? Is your witness / reputation for Christ stronger because of your friends? Have you ever considered the feelings of an “outsider”….. have you been the “outsider?”
Campers at camp are placed in “coterie” in the cabin, activities and Bible study. This camp inner circle is designed to build up, accept, strengthen and encourage one other. Alphas and Omegas are two separate groups competing in spirit and in sport to bring excitement each camp day. Our Coaching staff is intentional about creating an atmosphere of inclusion versus exclusion as opposed to cliquishness.
My challenge is for each of you to find a safe-haven in a solid group of friends that build up. Also, be aware of how and when to open up to new friends by being an inviting person by your attitude and actions. Parents, your children will act out from your example, biases and preferences.
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