One of the hottest weekends in Maryland called for a guy’s weekend out of town and onto the river for my first adventure white water rafting. The crazy hot temperatures made the river feel like bath water, but it was better than sitting at home with an AC unit that was built in the 1970’s trying to sweat it out.

Truthfully, my buddy and I booked the trip at the beginning of June, not knowing how hot it would be this past weekend. The trip served two purposes: 1. Both of our birthday’s are in July so it was a good way to celebrate 2. We are coming to the end of a study called “Wild at Heart” and wanted to embark on an adventure. The weekend was a success on both counts.

It was a timely trip, not only because of the heat, but also served as a time to strengthen the friendship between my buddy and I. Friendships, like all relationships, need work, time, energy, effort. If a relationship of any kind lacks this, there really is not much of a relationship at all. This is why Melissa and I, though married, still have a date night once a week, to make our marriage work…and not just work…but flourish! This is why the guys get together once a week or once a month for that poker game; why the ladies get together over coffee and talk for hours; why your kids want to play with you as soon as you get home from work…everyone is looking for ways to connect and for the relationships in their lives to be meaningful.

Time.

Energy.

Effort.

In a world of technology where we can read Facebook Status after Facebook status…do we really need to put in work? Really?? What does that even look like?

For my buddy and I, it was to unplug for the weekend. Leave the cell phone’s in the hotel, no laptop, nothing. The people at home are at home, and they will be there when we get back. There is nothing we could do to help any of them anyway. So…disconnect. Be fully present. Invest where you are. Give your time and attention to the person you are with at that moment.

My buddy Adam and I came did this and we came home with a stronger friendship.

As a result of this same practice: Melissa and I have a stronger marriage because we unplug every week for date night.

The payoff’s of unplugging can and will affect every relationship in your life…if you allow it.

Rafting was a great way to bond and refresh the friendship that Adam and I share. We came home with funny stories, jokes, and great memories from being outdoors. This weekend was a great way to connect with an awesome friend. I encourage you to do the same.

Get unplugged. Be fully present. You will be glad you did! …and so will the people in your life.