From The Pastor’s Pen – By Brian Horrobin
It has been said that “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.”
My children simply do not get this.
In other words, when people copy you it reveals that they like something they see in you and want to do it themselves.
It can be annoying, as most kids would agree, but I am not talking about the game of mimic that children often play, where they just parrot back what the other kid said.
Yes, that is definitely annoying!
Instead, I am referring to wholesome habits and positive behaviours.
For that reason I am hoping my children, and all those around me, will be a copycat of some of the things I have imitated in others.
I copy my father-in-law’s practice of reading the Bible every day.
I copy my friend Tom who always addresses people by their name, wherever possible.
I copy my wife Ruth and drink tea with people who need to talk (ok, so I’m still working on that one!).
I copy Jesus, and seek to treat others as I would want them to treat me.
I am quite sure all of these people would be rather pleased that I chose to imitate them, and not be annoyed.
We shouldn’t try to corner the market on something we are doing if it is good and can help others.
Share the wealth and let others benefit from what you know to be beneficial.
But let me caution you not to dwell too much on the “flattery” part.
Somebody probably thought of it before you did.
Just smile and carry on!
