Growing up my parents were the ones that would change the church marquee sign, often times overly cheesy and judgemental words covered the sign. As a teenager I wondered if they honestly thought anyone would read that and who are they trying to reach. I now tend to ignore church marquee signs, which is probably why I miss that the church down the road is hosting Upward sports or any other special events.
A few weeks ago I past the church and read Be a fountain, not a drain. Which are you? I am sure those words have been spoken many times before; however, this time I thought there’s a lesson in those words. So I really began thinking about that. You know those times when you can’t get a song out of your head? The words Am I a fountain or am I a drain weighed on me.
Fountains are refreshing, life-giving, faithful. People make wishes in fountains; adults sit by them and children play in them. People’s nerves are calmed and their souls are soothed just by being near fountains.
Not so with drains.
Drains sap your strength and make you uncomfortable. Do you remember feeling scared when you swam over pool drains when you were little? (Who am I kidding? Pool drains still freak me out a little.) Drains instill anxiety and dread. Everyone knows drains are awful.
I don’t think any of us are purely one or the other. I think we practice those dispositions.
When I’m acting like a drain, I am… Critical, Impatient, Rude, Self-Serving, Insensitive, Angry, Out of Control
When I’m acting like a fountain, I am… Encouraging, Patient, Nice, Considerate, Thoughtful, Joyful. Self-controlled
No wonder fountains are happy; that’s a great list! I want to be a fountain!
Be a welcomed sight to your family and friends and even perfect strangers . Be refreshing to others! Add to their lives by your smile, your words and especially your behavior. Like the fountain, be a continual source of happy, positive feelings. Even when you are facing something challenging, how you handle that challenge can have lasting impact on those around you. Engage their help as needed, share your feelings of fear or discomfort, but do not be a drain. Be a fountain, an inspiration to others in your honesty and your ability to ask for support when needed, and most important by how you manage through the challenge. Share your love of life, your humor, and educate others by your experiences. As you walk away, may others be glad they spent time with you because you are a source of life to them, much like the fountains centuries ago.
May others feel refreshed by your presence.
Fountain. Drain. Which one will you choose to be?
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