I have a friend who is a wonderful friend to Christian schools. He supports the school his daughter attends and Tall Oaks and another school as well. He loves Christian schools and the life impact we can have when we stay true to the mission.
Recently, he became aware of a regional Christian worldview conference designed for upperclassmen. He approached the school's principal with an offer to help underwrite the cost, but he was told that everyone had already paid their way.
At that moment, the principal should have continued the discussion with the donor to explore other areas of worldview training that could be made available to students.
Instead of thinking broadly as we hear the heart of the donor, we think myopically and, often, we only focus on one imitative or project at a time.
This behavior causes us to miss a potential blessing for the school as well as a frustrating a donor who has a good and legitimate way they would like to help.
How do we combat this myopia? Remember that the school is not "our" school, that is belongs to the Lord Himself and He has His purposes for us.
Listen for clues to the passion and interest in the donor. They may not yell at the top of their voices, but they have a reason that is compelling them.
Repeat back what you heard so that you can validate what the donor is saying. Then, try to think of ways to use their good intentions for the school. This assumes, of course, that their purposes don't pull the school away from its core mission.
You might be surprised at what you hear.
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