“A String of Behavioral Beeds”
No, the word “Beeds” in the title is not a misspelling. It is a wonderful new word that a friend of mine coined.
He and I are part of a threesome who help one another with growth and accountability. We are always seeking ways in which we can grow and become better men.
My friend was trying to find an English word for “the smallest meaningful unit of behavior” and couldn’t. So, he invented the word “beed”. It is a blend word, also known as a portmanteau word. (Think of “smog”, which combines “smoke” with “fog”.)
The word “beed” combines the words “behavior” and “deed”. Beeds are not big, hairy audacious goals, or even dramatic deeds. Beeds are the atoms of behavioral molecules.
Too often, we are rather dismissive of small things. However, that is like being dismissive of atoms, which are the building blocks of the entire created universe.
To do small, but good things, is to participate in the creation of the universe. It is to live out our humanity as the images of God.
Jesus said that even giving a cup of cold water or visiting someone who was sick or in prison was important and would receive a glorious reward. Jesus was apparently into beeds.
So, let me ask you an important question: What needs can you create and string together today?
As I was writing this post, I got word that my mother-in-law just passed away. It was a long and bitter battle for her. I loved my mother-in-law. Still do.
Several of my friends have picked up the phone when I’ve called. When they couldn’t, they soon called me back. Picking up a phone a very small beed, but it just goes to show you how important and meaningful even a small beed can be.
Let’s all string some beeds today. What do you say?
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