"Share each other's troubles and problems, and so obey our Lord's command."1
The North American Indians had no written language
before they met the white man. Their language, however, was far from
primitive. Many of the Indians had as many words in their vocabulary as
their English and French exploiters. Some of their words were much
more picturesque, too. For example, "friend" to the Indians was
"one-who-carries-my-sorrows-on-his-back."
Everybody needs at least one trusted "Indian-type"
friend with whom he or she can share his or her deepest sorrows and
painful feelings. We all need a helping hand and a listening ear when
we're going through difficult times.
How do we find such a friend? First, by praying and
asking God to help us to be an "Indian-type" friend to others. And then
by asking God to help us find such a friend.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, help me to become a true
‘Indian-type-safe-burden-bearing friend’ myself and be supportive of
others in need. And please help me to find a friend with whom I feel
safe to share all my sorrows, failures, struggles, and problems—as well
as all my successes and joys. Thank you for hearing and answering my
prayer. Gratefully in Jesus’ name, amen.”
1. The Apostle Paul, (Galatians 6:2, TLB).
By Dick Innes
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