No Competition

A Firm Foundation Blog: By Teraleen Campbell
A Firm Foundation Blog: By Teraleen Campbell

June kicks off the 2nd half of the year. I call it the second half of 2018. (I like sports metaphors.)

As I approach this second half of year, I pondered and put some things into perspective.  I reminded myself that I’m in a race with no one. I am competing with no one.  I just want to be a better me.  I can admit that it took me a while to get to this point.  You see, wisdom has come.  Experiences do indeed teach valuable life lessons, if we allow them to do so.

When I was a young professional, in my 20s, I consumed myself with building a career and proving myself to others. Yes, I sought the approval of other people, my mom, family and friends.

There were times that I ran and ran, gave and gave because I felt the need to prove my worth.  This was due to a variety of reasons (No father, poor relationship with step-father, only child, betrayal, etc.) I said yes to things out of obligation, and not wanting to let anyone down. I ran myself ragged trying to prove myself to others and to myself.  Then I came to a point where I felt empty.  As we go further into the second half of this year, I’ve purposed in my heart to keep the following in mind and encourage you to do the same.

  1. Be a better me in my walk with God – discipleship
  2. Better me as a family member – kinship
  3. Better me as a part of my community – citizenship

Your destiny may be connected to mine, but it is not mine. Therefore we don’t have to compete. We can support each other. Push each other. Iron sharpens iron. Let’s sharpen each other. Keep each other sharp. No dull knives around me! I recently, read a quote on Instagram from Dr. Vikki Johnson that is very poignant. “Real friends tell you when you aren’t living up to your potential. They don’t let you sit and be mediocre and think you’re lit.”

“We must bind the spirit of competition.  Let’s not be guilty of presenting ourselves has having super families, careers and marriages on social media, as we seek to impress others.  Meanwhile, we are actually suffering at home.

Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.  For we are each responsible for our own conduct.  Galatians 6:4-5 NLT

When all is said and done, my ultimate goal is to hear the Lord say “Well done my good and faithful servant.  Your destiny has been fulfilled.”

The song Well Done sung by Erica Campbell perfectly sums up my ultimate life’s desire.

 

2 Comments

  1. What a right on time word. This is soooo my story. Continue to share enlightening writings which inspire and uplift our hearts. You are a blessing…

  2. Thank you Sis Carolyn!

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