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I think it is interesting that God designed people to need other people. We see those cigarett advertisements with the rugged cowboy riding around alone on a horse, and we think that is strength, when, really, it is like setting your soul down on a couch and not exercising it. The soul needs to interact with other people to be healthy.

Don Miller#89

CommunityConnectionIndependenceSocial interactionSoulStrength

About this quote

What does it mean?
God designed humans to need each other, contrary to the popular image of the rugged lone cowboy. True strength involves interacting with others to keep the soul healthy.
In plain terms
We are made to need people, and isolating ourselves is like neglecting our spiritual health.
What can you take from it?
Interacting with others is necessary for a healthy soul, not a sign of weakness.

Where it applies

  • valuing self-reliance over connection
  • feeling guilty about needing others
  • interpreting strength

Putting it to work

  • challenge isolation myths
  • prioritize relationships
  • seek community support

Questions to consider

  • What does true strength look like to you?
  • How do you value independence versus connection?

Another view

Some solitary pursuits can be spiritually beneficial without constant interaction.

More from Don Miller

  1. Jesus does not want us floating through space or sitting in fron of our televisions. Jesus wants us interacting, eating together, laughing together, praying to…

    Permalink to quote #90
  2. When you live on your own for a long time, however, your personality changes because you go so much into yourself you lose the ability to be social, to underst…

    Permalink to quote #88
  3. The most difficult lie I have ever contended with is this: Life is a story about me.

    Permalink to quote #91

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