Relationships are my thing...I've even been called a relationship nerd! Recently, I was teaching a lesson to my 9th grade biology students on symbiotic relationships. Symbiotic relationships are between two organisms of different species who live in the same environment. There are three types of symbiosis: mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism. In each situation, at least one of the organisms benefits. A mutualistic relationship benefits both organisms. In commensalism, one benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed. Parasitism benefits one and harms the other. One of my students asked, "Are there any relationships where no one benefits?" I quickly responded, "What would be the point of relationship if no one benefited from it?" I paused and let that soak into my brain...true for symbiotic relationships and human relationships too.
This ecology lesson caused me to look at my relationships in a different light. Parasitism is not a relationship I want to have. I've been the person who was harmed (not going back there again!), and I would NEVER want to be the cause of that for someone else. I am blessed with mutualistic relationships, but my heart is to pursue commensalism. I want to seek the benefit and blessing of the other person without need or expectation of reciprocation. I want to give unselfishly and wholeheartedly while I allow God to fill me with everything He has and everything I need. I'm human, but I am praying to be more like Jesus and filled with Him!
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