Positive Chances: Building Upon Relationships

When to use it

Use when you want to be more intentional about ordinary relationships and notice small opportunities to help.

How to use it

1. List people you regularly interact with, using initials or private notes if preferred. Include relationships you want to tend without assuming everyone wants the same kind of contact.

2. Consider an appropriate, small action for each: ask whether help is welcome, listen, include someone in an activity or thank them for something specific.

3. Review the list briefly at a regular time. The book includes prayer; families may understand that as its stated faith practice rather than a requirement for every reader.

4. Look for a real opportunity and ask before helping where permission matters. Respect a no, a wish for privacy or an indication that your help is not needed.

5. Record your action and the observed response separately. Do not claim to know how the other person felt, and do not turn a kind action into a debt.

6. Review safety and reciprocity over time. Add new people naturally, keep needed distance from harmful behavior, and seek adult help when a relationship is not safe.

A worked example

A practical illustration of the method.

A learner notices a new classmate sitting alone and asks, “Would you like company?” The classmate can accept or decline. If they accept, the learner listens and offers an introduction to others. The reflection records the invitation and response, not a promise that one kind act creates a permanent friendship.

Use it thoughtfully

Repeated unwanted contact is not kindness.

Do not continue direct help when it places you in danger or ignores a boundary.

The story’s positive outcomes illustrate its values; they do not guarantee that service produces friends, opportunities or rewards.

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