"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three stands is not quickly broken." – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

In Ecclesiastes, King Solomon provides us with a powerful lesson on the importance of community in our lives. This passage encourages us to cultivate deep and meaningful connections with others, as we are not meant to go through life alone.

Earlier this year, as I transitioned to a new role at Buckner, I began to purge through my items. Others asked if I needed any assistance, and thinking I could handle it, I declined the offer.

Months later, I still had things in boxes on my desk and in my old office. Again, team members offered to help, and again, I declined.

Weeks went by, and I was busy meeting with families, working on reports, attending meetings, getting acclimated to my new role, doing all the required tasks, and still trying to organize my new office while cleaning the old one.

I purchased a cabinet to help with organization. I declined coworkers’ offers for help for the third time. For another week, I was stuck trying to figure out why the cabinet wouldn’t come together properly.

Instead of receiving the help repeatedly offered by team members, I went online to hire a local handyman. As I was waiting for them to arrive, another team member was able to solve the problem. In just five minutes, my cabinet was finished, and I was able to put some things away.

When we have someone to share our burdens and joys with, the work becomes lighter and more rewarding. In times of trouble, having a companion by our side can make all the difference. They can offer a helping hand, provide comfort and lift us up when we fall. There’s strength in unity.

The situation with the cabinet was a simple reminder that God provided me with team members to help carry my load. Yet, I allowed my ego to get in the way of them "bearing my burdens."

Solomon uses the analogy of two people lying together to keep warm, speaking of the intimacy and comfort found in the presence of a trusted friend or loved one.

But as I struggled to accept help, I allowed self-doubt to creep in. I began to think, "If I can't even figure out this cabinet, how would I be able to be a director?" All I had to do was allow the team around me to provide their support.

As I reflect on this Scripture, I'm reminded of the importance of fostering deep relationships in our lives. We're encouraged to seek out companionship, support and connection with others, knowing we're not meant to navigate this journey of life alone.

Remember that together, we are stronger, warmer and more resilient. Let us cherish and nurture the relationships in our lives, and may we always be willing to lend a helping hand, offer our support to those around us, and allow others to do the same for us.

Written by Jameka Dunn, director of Buckner Family Pathways® in Houston, Texas.