A Lunch that Strikes Iron
In conversation over lunch today in the company of business owners and retirees, a civic leader, governmental policy maker, and a recruiter for young civil servants and a government advocacy leader, that held some heady discussion on world policies, internship, and the importance of paying attention to moral principles rather than following orders.
Image Credit: Calvin Harris, H.W., M.
The conversation after the salad or soup became lighter in tone and demeanor with laughter and short, amusing, or interesting anecdotes from personal stories. it was not long before I was engaged about my various involvements in philanthropy groups and their practices of donating money, time, and other resources to promote the well-being of others and improve society. The conversation then turned to descriptions of some of my workshops and my type of approach to workshops.
In the mist of my explanation one of the members of the lunch party said “Oh, yes. I see, like iron sharpening iron.” — and then took another bite of his food. I was a little surprised to hear Group Dynamics described as “iron sharpening iron.” And the thought stayed with me, as we went on to discuss the New Years Gala happening in December 31st as final plans have been made and promotion and donations where starting to come in.
I came home from the luncheon energized by the camaraderie, the energy and focus of the people, building a positive, supportive, and communicative environment where people from different strata of life’s experience were invested and thus felt valued and connected, in the various projects we were involved in as a Group called the Black Brothers of the Desert.
Once home that phase “iron sharpening iron” kept going through my head, I had to look it up and find the reference to the phase, and what I found was this:
The proverb "iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17) signifies that individuals can improve and refine each other through interaction and mutual support. Just as two pieces of iron can be rubbed together to create sharper edges, people can sharpen each other's minds, skills, and character through constructive feedback, encouragement, and challenging each other.
Looking further into the explanation I found this:
Mutual Benefit: The proverb highlights the idea that relationships can be a source of growth and improvement for all involved.
Constructive Criticism: It implies that giving and receiving feedback, even when challenging, can lead to positive change and development.
Community and Support: The concept of iron sharpening iron emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with others who inspire growth and provide support.
Refinement of Character: Just as iron becomes more refined and effective through sharpening, individuals can become better versions of themselves through interaction with others.
Spiritual Growth: In a spiritual context, this proverb can also be interpreted as friends encouraging each other to grow in faith, knowledge, and good works.
I am hoping to have conversations with some of you at the Prosperos Assembly 2025 regarding "invested students in the work" that would be interested in taking their studies and practice to the next level. I feel like, in times like these, we can all use all the help and encouragement we can get.
Now if you have not made your reservations yet, for Prosperos Assembly 2025, you may want to do so as soon as possible, because The Prosperos Assembly is scheduled for the weekend of September 05 -08, 2025. Now that may seem like a ways off but the Hotel has special Room Rates for the Prosperos that are only $179 (plus tax) per night, but you need to make your reservations by August 07, 2025 (or earlier if room block sells out) to get this discounted rate.
The Hotel is Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina, 2051 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California 92106. Reservations can be made on the Prosperos Website or through the Hotel. Hotel Number (619) 222-0561.Make sure you let them know you are with the Prosperos.
Also, the Prosperos is offering an early bird special rate of $249 for all four days of events plus a banquet!! You must take advantage of that price before July 31, 2025.
Who knows this might be the event that helps sharpen your iron!
I am looking forward to the event and maybe even seeing and speaking to you there!
Aloha, Calvin