Susan LaffertyIn the early 1980s, I was invited to a strategic gathering.
Large group. All different ages. Raised in countries on every continent. Brought together on purpose.
Why? To gain understanding of a term coined by Ruth Hill Useem in the 1950s.
And now found in Webster’s dictionary.
Third culture kid. TCK.
Only one thing teaches me God’s will.
And gets me out of my own preconceived ideas. About what I can and cannot do. Or who I am. Where I need to be.
Only one practice. One way of living and breathing. Teaching me His greater purpose and meaningful plan.
Daily abiding in the Vine, Christ Jesus.
Learning this necessary truth takes time and effort. Surrender.
But sooner or later, I clearly see.
Only He is the root and sustainer. The source of true life and fruitfulness.
“Did you hear what she just said? Listen.”
It’s back in the ‘90s. I’m participating in a counseling workshop in Karachi. Led by a woman from the UK whose counseling ministry is all about listening.
She instructs us on the importance of fully taking in what someone is sharing with you. Don’t try to give answers. Don’t start telling your own story.
Just listen.