#8 "Trying To Go it Alone"

If we believe the Bible that we teach and preach, we know God created us to need each other. But, a common mistake in college ministry is attempting to "go it alone" or feeling alone.

Those that work on campus are not teachers, administrators or church staff members. Perhaps, you like me, have been asked, "Do you think you will ever get your own church?" But, part of our aloneness can come from the all consuming nature of our work---you never get done. But, all of us need someone (besides our spouse) who thinks we matter and with which we can celebrate successes and share frustrations. Be honest now. Do you have some friends who are not college students?

Try these suggestions:

-Have a standing weekly lunch date with someone you like and who at least acts like the feeling might be mutual.

-Play bad golf. My first golf game came after going to the Hock shop and saying, "I will take that shiny set of clubs."

You meet really interesting characters and you can even play alone---which still just beats working all the time.

-Have a friend who is in college ministry in another city or state and you can call each other and laugh and cry together. I have a friend in another state with which I talk as often as two or three times a week. He may be crazier than I am!

Remember: If you try to go it alone in college ministry, you have a fool for a friend!

Arliss Dickerson