The world revolves around (insert your name here)

Okay, so did you really believe what you read in the title line up there? LOL - Probably not. Perhaps I got your attention. Then again, maybe not.

Selfishness is not a good thing, folks.

This applies to your spouse (if any), your dates and significant others (if any at the moment), your family, your co-workers, and your personal friends. It even applies to strangers you encounter. For instance, the people I engaged with at the grocery store on this first Sunday of 2025.

Dictionary.com defines the word "narcissist" as "a person who is overly self-involved, and often vain and selfish".

We should avoid narcissism. 

It could be as simple as a conversation with a friend where you discuss nothing but yourself and fail to ask about how they're doing or what they're up to.

It could be failing to reach out when you know a member of your family or a friend is in need and where you have the ability to help.

It could be not reaching out to anyone at all unless you need something.

It could be relying on your spouse to take care of your home and your needs without assisting him or her.

I encourage my fans and followers to live beyond such a narrow-minded and childish approach to this life we live.

Here are a couple of blurbs from the Bible about the evil of selfishness and the blessings of being a "giver" in life:

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
- Philippians chapter 2

"It is more blessed to give than to receive."
- Statement from Paul (quoting Jesus) in Acts chapter 20

Go the extra mile for your family, friends, and everyone you encounter in your life. Show common courtesy. Be thoughtful in small ways.

When presented with the opportunity, help others. When you're talking with your friends, be sure to ask about their lives.

When someone needs help and you have the ability to help, take action.

Be competitive when it is appropriate to do so in your job. But don't be arrogant, and don't "backstab" co-workers in any way to gain an advantage for yourself.

I hope you will ponder this message and be blessed by it as you move through the week ahead.

James A. Rose, Publisher