As I reflect on the Bronco's game yesterday, and March Madness last spring, and the rivalry between Apple and Microsoft, and neighbors who don't get along and neighbors who do get along, I question the essential value of "win-lose" in relationships. Actually, I question it in many areas of life.
I saw a Broncos team member and an Eagles team member exchange a friendly pat on the back before getting their heads back into the game. At that point, win-lose was just the game -- relationally they were about win-win, and it felt good.
How many husbands and wives, I wonder, compete with one another. If they do, mostly it's subtle. Subtle or not, it destroys the intimacy and hope of their relationship. He makes so much money. She must make as much or a bit more. He has so many friends. She must have a few more friends. She spends time with the kids. He must be more important to the kids than she is.
You get the idea.
In relationships, open and friendly competition may be fun. A win-lose approach to the relationship leads to disaster, even if only one party embraces it.
What do you think?
Leave a comment and let us know.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please add a comment. I value insights, experiences, and aspirations. I suspect our readers value your insights and comments as well.