A big part of the LIFE business is about making friends. I have been associated with Orrin Woodward in business for almost a decade now. We have become great friends while building a business and pursuing our purpose.
It is amazing how before I started in the LIFE business, I had a couple of good friends I could really count on. Now, after being part of LIFE, I could not even begin to count the friendships I have.
Let me give you on example. When Lisa and I bought our first home, we had a housewarming party to celebrate our big mortgage, I mean purchase! 🙂 I would like to say the house was packed and we were swimming in gifts; however, we could barely get a dozen people to come over, including family!
Multiply your friends in LIFE
A few years ago, after being in the LIFE business for just five years, we purchased a new home. We were excited to share this home with friends, so we decided to have a party (this time asking for no gifts), a little afraid of repeating the results of our last party. The turnout was a bit different! We ended up having three separate parties, each with over 200 guests in attendance! Let’s just say we did not make fast friends with the neighbors, but we realized we had more friends than we could have ever hoped for.
Friends for life in the LIFE Business
Not only have we been blessed with an abundance of friends, but we have developed many close, lifelong friendships through this community.
Today I wanted to share a small excerpt of one of my favorite books of all time: RESOLVED: 13 Resolutions for LIFE by Orrin Woodward. This section of the book does an amazing job of describing what true friendship is—the kind of friendships Lisa and I have been able to find in LIFE!
A trusted friend is loyal to his friends when he is in front of them and, more importantly, when they are not present. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” Loyalty doesn’t mean taking a friend’s side on any issue, right or wrong; rather, it means one is a friend, right or wrong. People must defend a friend’s character, honor, and reputation as far as the truth allows while helping to resolve any issue privately and promptly. Lincoln said, “A friend is one who has the same enemies as you have,” which is true as long as the truth is on the side of the friend. The key principle to follow is loyalty to the absent, protecting the character of those who are not present to stand up for themselves. For example, if you wouldn’t say something about a person who is in the room you are in, then why would you say it when he isn’t in the same room? Sadly, when this principle is abused, a person quickly gains the reputation of being a talebearer who can no longer be respected or trusted as a true friend.
What if two friends fall into a conflict and place their mutual friends in the middle? In this situation, a mutual true friend would bring the two conflicting friends together in a spirit of reconciliation. Both parties must follow the conflict resolution principles (to be covered in the Conflict Resolution Chapter). If either side refuses to follow the principles, the refusing party violates the trust of all who are involved. What good is it to have principles if they are not followed when needed? Self-deception can blind a friend. As Maxwell wrote, “If you are not honest with yourself, you will not be capable of honesty with others. Self-deception is the enemy of relationships. It also undermines personal growth. If a person does not admit his shortcomings, he cannot improve.” At this point, a person must address his friend privately and promptly to point out his friend’s blind spot, praying that his friend will return to the principles that are based on virtue and are expected from all true friends. Friends are loyal to one another, only abandoning a friendship when a friend refuses to return to the principles of virtue and honor after numerous attempts by friends to help. Simply put, loyalty to a friend only ends where untruth begins. Even in this sad situation, former friends should maintain confidence where possible and hold on to the hope that in the future, restoration will happen when principles of virtue are restored in the lost individual. Loyalty, fidelity, and honor are the foundations of lifelong friendships, though they are seldom seen in today’s society. Next to truth as the most valued principle of friendship is loyalty, which forms the glue that holds friendships together during the storms of life.
Summary
True friendship is a lost art in today’s “me” generation, and this increases the value of a friend. The best way to find friends of such caliber is to be one, which is why developing the art and science of friendship is one of the thirteen resolutions. If someone dies having had several true friends, then he is a blessed man. A person must make a commitment to give to each of his relationships more than he receives. Although simple in theory, this is much tougher in practice, especially with true friends. A friendship brings so much joy and fun into one’s life that it should be cultivated as a fine art. Conversely, damaged relationships bring so much pain into one’s life that conflicts should be resolved promptly. Resolve the issues rather than dissolve the friendship, if at all possible. A person’s real wealth isn’t his net worth but his relationships with God, his family, and his friends. No amount of money can mend a damaged relationship or purchase the joy and happiness experienced in a true friendship. Regardless of the fickleness and fecklessness witnessed in the world, resolve today to give others the fidelity and faithfulness of a true friend.
15 thoughts on “Making Friends in the LIFE Business”
Troy Walker
I have to agree with Dan the friends ships I have made with the people of life the best ones that I ever had before this. It just awesome how people are so willing to help and are genuine
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Bryan Kemp
Thanks Dan, this post has come at the most perfect time for Reanna and I. We are currently using the principles of Conflict Resolution to mend two friendships within our business. Dangerous territory verging on triangulation we have been able to help bring closure to what might have been a very ugly situation! We have also experienced first hand through growing personally in our journey who our true friends really are. With the exception of a select few from before becoming involved with LIFE, some of out greatest friends to date have developed within this business. We understand now what it means to be true friends and we are committed to being the type of friends others would like to have close to them.
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Brian Cotant
Great information here Dan, i will be sure to share this blog and the Life Business with everyone I come in contact with. What an amazing vehicle to accomplish anything we desire out of life. Thanks for sharing!
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Terry
Great article Dan, true friendship is one of the secrets of a purposeful life.
T
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Chad Eggum
So many people don’t know what true friendship is and because it seems a lot of people think everyone is out just for themselves it make it hard for other to trust people that r truely looking to help others for the right reasons but I know through what the LIFE business brings to people that is going to change for the better. I have finally learned that the friends I have made thought the people in this like the Sagers, Seversons, Rossman’s and so many others I know what true friendship means and I thank all of u that have been there for me when and with whatever it may have been that I was going through and knowing that they will be there in future event in my life and so many other I’m proud to call u friends and family. Love to all
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steve sager
Chad, your friendship is the best as well. Seeing how hard you serve others and care for those who are need is what makes you so great! We are very proud to call you a close friend to!
Thanks for the reminder Dan! This chapter of Resolved was very humbling and revealing for me to engage. One of my resolutions is to make friendship (as Chris Mattis says) “A One Way Street” going forward. God Bless! Can’t wait for Louisville!
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Alex Obiden
I have had a best friend since first grade, we are now 22, and business partners through the LIFE Compensated Community. Without the principles we learned about friendship ad conflict resolution in the LIFE program I couldn’t promise you that, that friendship would still exist. He and I are much different, but very much the same. I can, however, say this now that we are partnered together through LIFE striving for our goals in unison; our friendship will be long, enjoyable, and very fruitful. Thanks Dan.
A great reminder of the need to be a friend to have a friend. Watching great friendships develop is one of the blessings and rewards of the LIFE community. Have principles to follow as these relationships develop help to ensure long lasting friendships. Reminders such as yours help to keep the importance of these principles alive in our lives so these relationships can be maintained and passed onto others.
Thanks for your friendship,
Greg
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ryanblakely1
Great post Dan!! This really is a place where you find true friends that will bend over backwards for you! I have realized what it means to be a true friend here. I thank God for the friendships that he has brought into my life! Thank you and God Bless!!
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Keith Whitaker
Great post Dan,
This is the second time I’ve read RESOLVED from best selling author Orrin Woodward. The first time I read chapter 7 I wanted my friends to read this so they could be like this for me! What I’ve come to realize is I wasn’t making a point of doing it for them! I’ve also realized that (it might sound bad at first) I spent a lot of time in fruitless realationships! I’m still friendly with everyone, but true frienship is a two way street and if the only traffic is on your side you have to find out where the others are going!
Thanks again,
Keith & Tracie Whitaker
(LIFE is Life – Fight for it)
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Teesa Rossman
The friendships we have gained in LIFE are monumental. People would not believe the stories we have of those who have helped us and put their faith in us. The best part is we get to return the favor, not just to those who have helped us, but to those who may not be able to help themselves just yet. We are so thankful to be part of this community.
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Tennyson Heen
Nice sharing of how LIFE has helped you, Lisa and the girls out and a good reminder from “Resolved”.on true friendships. You and Lisa are true servant leaders. California appreciates you guys.
Looking forward to you & Lisa coming out west again for the February seminar in NorCal.
I have to agree with Dan the friends ships I have made with the people of life the best ones that I ever had before this. It just awesome how people are so willing to help and are genuine
Thanks Dan, this post has come at the most perfect time for Reanna and I. We are currently using the principles of Conflict Resolution to mend two friendships within our business. Dangerous territory verging on triangulation we have been able to help bring closure to what might have been a very ugly situation! We have also experienced first hand through growing personally in our journey who our true friends really are. With the exception of a select few from before becoming involved with LIFE, some of out greatest friends to date have developed within this business. We understand now what it means to be true friends and we are committed to being the type of friends others would like to have close to them.
Great information here Dan, i will be sure to share this blog and the Life Business with everyone I come in contact with. What an amazing vehicle to accomplish anything we desire out of life. Thanks for sharing!
Great article Dan, true friendship is one of the secrets of a purposeful life.
T
So many people don’t know what true friendship is and because it seems a lot of people think everyone is out just for themselves it make it hard for other to trust people that r truely looking to help others for the right reasons but I know through what the LIFE business brings to people that is going to change for the better. I have finally learned that the friends I have made thought the people in this like the Sagers, Seversons, Rossman’s and so many others I know what true friendship means and I thank all of u that have been there for me when and with whatever it may have been that I was going through and knowing that they will be there in future event in my life and so many other I’m proud to call u friends and family. Love to all
Chad, your friendship is the best as well. Seeing how hard you serve others and care for those who are need is what makes you so great! We are very proud to call you a close friend to!
Thanks for the reminder Dan! This chapter of Resolved was very humbling and revealing for me to engage. One of my resolutions is to make friendship (as Chris Mattis says) “A One Way Street” going forward. God Bless! Can’t wait for Louisville!
I have had a best friend since first grade, we are now 22, and business partners through the LIFE Compensated Community. Without the principles we learned about friendship ad conflict resolution in the LIFE program I couldn’t promise you that, that friendship would still exist. He and I are much different, but very much the same. I can, however, say this now that we are partnered together through LIFE striving for our goals in unison; our friendship will be long, enjoyable, and very fruitful. Thanks Dan.
Dan,
A great reminder of the need to be a friend to have a friend. Watching great friendships develop is one of the blessings and rewards of the LIFE community. Have principles to follow as these relationships develop help to ensure long lasting friendships. Reminders such as yours help to keep the importance of these principles alive in our lives so these relationships can be maintained and passed onto others.
Thanks for your friendship,
Greg
Great post Dan!! This really is a place where you find true friends that will bend over backwards for you! I have realized what it means to be a true friend here. I thank God for the friendships that he has brought into my life! Thank you and God Bless!!
Great post Dan,
This is the second time I’ve read RESOLVED from best selling author Orrin Woodward. The first time I read chapter 7 I wanted my friends to read this so they could be like this for me! What I’ve come to realize is I wasn’t making a point of doing it for them! I’ve also realized that (it might sound bad at first) I spent a lot of time in fruitless realationships! I’m still friendly with everyone, but true frienship is a two way street and if the only traffic is on your side you have to find out where the others are going!
Thanks again,
Keith & Tracie Whitaker
(LIFE is Life – Fight for it)
The friendships we have gained in LIFE are monumental. People would not believe the stories we have of those who have helped us and put their faith in us. The best part is we get to return the favor, not just to those who have helped us, but to those who may not be able to help themselves just yet. We are so thankful to be part of this community.
Nice sharing of how LIFE has helped you, Lisa and the girls out and a good reminder from “Resolved”.on true friendships. You and Lisa are true servant leaders. California appreciates you guys.
Looking forward to you & Lisa coming out west again for the February seminar in NorCal.
Amazing !!!
🙂