There is a time in most of our lives when we strive to belong to something. We do this because we have been created to seek relationships. When found these relationships will give us a sense of belonging which fulfills our desire to be a part of something bigger than ourselves.
Ironically, many times we are drawn to being a part of a team or group that does not necessarily see us the same way we see them. This can cause confusion, dismay, and heartache. This can be especially troubling when we are allowed to be a part of the group or team, but we find ourselves on the “outside of the inside”.
This can be lonelier than not belonging because it exposes our need to build and cultivate relationships that value us as much as we value them. This need is internal, and the pain and disappointment felt when unmet, is real.
Being “outside of the inside” is nothing new and will continue to take place as people create groups and environments that are exclusive and difficult to become a part of.
Many times, those who have created these groups or environments are completely unaware of the closed nature of their group. However, at other times, people are very aware of what they are doing, as they manipulate others until they no longer see the advantage this manipulation brings.
Here is where the ugliness of humanity can be seen. It is ugly because one person is being disregarded to benefit another.
Though this may not be a new problem, it is one that should be addressed because people have intrinsic value and that should not be trifled with. The harm that ensues is real and the effects can be devastating.
So how do we recognize when we are participating in keeping someone “outside of the inside”? Many times, we just need to open our eyes to what is taking place around us. We can start by seeing people as people, not as commodities or tools to be used to our advantage.
I believe if we do this, not only will no one ever feel, “outside of the inside” but the sense of belonging that would be created would benefit everyone.
If we are going to share this world and become all we have been created to be, we need to start by realizing no one should ever be on the “outside of the inside”. When we do, we will not only change the life of the person or persons who may feel this way. We will change the heart of anyone who has ever felt this way.
Then, we will be reflecting the heart of Christ who came to allow us all access to the inside!
1 John 4:4, “But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.”
