Partnerships

Pat and I have learned to absorb audio books on long road trips. The local library has enough good material to last for the rest of our driving days, and when we misjudge how much material we can consume, Cracker Barrel Restaurants make good listening affordable.

We are currently listening to the last disk of Tom Brokaw’s The Time of Our Lives, the veteran journalists musings on where the United States is in relationship to her past and future. From his comments on the values of partnerships, I quote, “What would Hewlett have been without Packard, Huntley without Brinkley, McCartney without Lennon, Woodward without Bernstein? Another query is worthy of mention, “Joe Montana was my idea of the best all-time National Football League quarterback, but without Jerry Rice, who knows?”

The list of those with whom we have been privileged to partner is long and impressive. Each partner embodied skills we needed, character which reinforced us, and added to our life immeasurably. Our hearts are warmed and smiles crease our faces when we remember the times when team members contributed in as many ways as God is creative. They collaborated by reminding us to laugh when we could only think of weeping, teaching us needed skills as we fumbled ineptly, and shared unselfishly when nothing less would have made a difference.

Linda Ellerbe, Brokaw’s on-screen partner is quoted as saying, “Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did and she did it in high heels while dancing backward.” Listening to that line, and then reading it on the pages of the paper copy, reminded me of the extraordinary skills Pat has displayed for almost 45 years now. Her accomplishments, poise, contributions and steadfast support are simply astounding.

Solomon recognized the importance of partnership and expressed God-given wisdom. Long ago he penned this counsel –
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work:
If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him 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 strands is not quickly broken. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Barak stumbled until Deborah took the lead. Aquila was partnered with Priscilla. I enjoy Pat!