Posted by Tiffany Cooper
Don’t judge a book by its cover. Just because the outside is different doesn’t mean the contents aren’t wonderful. ~Esther Causey
It’s easy to put labels on people. I do it, you do it, we all do it. What we view on the outside leaves us with a limited understanding of the person. On more than on occasion, my judgement about a person has been corrected after spending time with them and discovering their true “contents”.
I LOVE that no matter who you are or what your ministry looks like, you are welcome and loved at Leading and Loving It. Diversity in all forms is celebrated. You’re not excluded because of a label you wear, whether it’s a label you’re proud to display or one that involves shame. We’re in this journey together, for better or worse. The thousands of Leading and Loving It women represent:
- introverted and extroverted personalities.
- some who are passionately pursuing their calling and others who aren’t sure what to do next.
- lace and pearls, rock’n’roll, comfy causal, high heels and big hair…you name it, we see it.
- small and large churches.
- differing denominations, or no denomination at all.
Last week I sat in my hotel room after retreat and reflected on how unique and wonderful it was to have so many of my friends in one place. They come from different parts of the country, different denominations or church groups, and different friend circles. Some have been life long friends, others are newer friends who have forever marked my heart. They’re different in so many ways but I love the wonderful contents each of them possess. Even more, I big-time love that my friends have found a place to thrive at Leading and Loving It.
If you’re already a part of Leading and Loving It, I’m so happy. If you’re new here, you are welcome and invited to join this group of amazing women who celebrate one another.
In honor of loving each other for the unique “contents” we possess, tell us one thing that distinguishes you from others and makes you wonderful. I’ll start: I feel more extroverted with one-on-one discussion and large group discussion, smaller groups (like 5-15) bring out my more introverted side. Now it’s your turn!