How's Your 'Superstructure' Holding Up?

Identifying the Pillars in Your Life When I think of the word 'pillar,' I often think of large stately columns like those pictured here. Pillars come in many shapes, sizes and adornments, depending on their function and placement in the building. On a personal level, I'm sure each of us can readily identify at least one or two individuals who stand out as being people whom you consider pillars - those who are there for you in times of need, who have offered support, encouraged you, and motivated you to forge on - they hold you up and are in a position of trust in your life. It could be a spouse, friend, family member, or even a co-worker.  There have likely been different people filling the role at the various stages of your life. I would wager that each and every one of you is or has been a pillar in someone else's life as well. It's interesting to note that we tend to take for granted that the pillars of a building are solid, strong, and held up by firm foundations. We don't give them a second thought when we walk into the building and assume they're sound - they're part of the superstructure holding the building together. Now think about the 'pillars' in your life - those people mentioned above. They've become part of your superstructure. They likely have solid, strong foundations, evidenced by the support they've given you over the years and the fruit that their lives have produced. Over time, however, like the building, figuratively speaking they've likely been exposed to everything from wind, rain, and hail to fire, flood, tornado, and maybe even earthquakes. We all face hardships now and then, and some of us don't necessarily show it outwardly. Have you given any thought lately to how your superstructure is holding up?  Sometimes we take for granted that our 'pillars' have everything together and that their own superstructures are always firm and strong, let alone their foundations. But they've had their own storms in life and there are times when they're the ones who need to be held up, strengthened, fortified, and protected. Each of us goes through internal struggles at times. Do you tend to only go to these people when you have a need or a crisis in your life, or do you offer mutual support by taking time to find out how they're holding up and if there's anything you can do to make their walk easier? It can be as simple as lending an ear or offering to pray for them if you're a person of faith. Two very powerful words in the English language are 'thank you.' Give a couple of these people a call in the coming days or reach out via e-mail or a greeting card and express your gratitude for the influence they've had on your life. It could be exactly what they need to hear right now! Walk strong out there! ---------------------------------- Share: