If not for people who are dedicated to us, we would never come to know ourselves or find happiness. And, if we had no one to share our happiness with, what purpose would it accomplish?

Not long ago, an old friend gave me some amazing advice about the importance of great relationships, just before leaving this world.

Carrie's Story

As I held Carrie's hand and looked into her eyes, I said, "What is the single most important lesson you have learned in life?"

While looking out the window, where the leaves of her favorite maple tree fluttered in the breeze, she whispered, "Relationships. You've got to have great relationships. Not just good ones. But most people don't.”

“Great Relationships? Tell me, what do we do wrong?” I asked.

“Most think you can just throw people away and get by with it. What you need to do, and I wish I had known this when I was young, is to put relationships first! When you’re young and foolish you think everyone is expendable.” She shook her head in quiet dismay.

“It’s all about ourselves, isn’t it? We neglect others,” I said.

“We can’t begin to take care of ourselves, or find happiness or success, without being there for others.” She squeezed my hand and groaned, “How many times I have lived to regret my broken relationships. This is my biggest regret.”

“What's your advice for me?”

“My advice to you is to cultivate your relationships, and make them the best they can be. Make them your number one priority. They will make you strong. Just think of the possibilities. Otherwise, you will end up with regrets that can't be fixed."

"That's tough to do."

She grabbed my arm and said, "True, but nothing is more profoundly satisfying than truly great relationships. Yes, I am going to miss the good, old earth . . ." She glanced at the patch of blue sky that floated above and behind the spreading maple tree. ". . . But I am going to miss the people I love more."

Carrie's breath was faint, but she wanted to say more. "Having good people in your life in just is the first part, but then you've got to take care of them. That's where folks go wrong. Our intentions are good, but we’re awfully busy. We get distracted. I want you to promise me that you will love your relationships and cherish them, then life will not disappoint you."

"You've got a deal. And I will do it for you."

“No. Do it for yourself.”

Relationships often get overlooked in our mad rush to tend to life's demands, and in our ongoing search to have more and more. The wise person, however, will build a network of great relationships as his or her foundation for success. And will take special care to mend broken or failing relationships, never burning a bridge behind him. If you burn a bridge, then build it again as soon as possible.

We can't find our way without the compass of great relationships as our guide; we won’t be happy or successful without them. We won’t ever belong.

This site is dedicated to the cultivation of winning associations and contacts, which will bring you great happiness and success in all areas of life. Read more articles on relationships by clicking on the links below.