Posted in Uncategorized on February 9, 2010|
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It is my hope or should I say ambition to use this blog to express what I rarely feel I am able to say in a manner I would like. I do not often possess the boldness or fortitude to stand on my soapbox and throw caution to the wind whilst speaking my mind. I lend toward the more reserved and quiet, always watching, taking mental notes and thinking. The few times I have spoken up someone has chosen to be offended or insulted. I have tried in vain to be considerate and guard my words carefully but despite my diligence at avoiding offense there are those that insist on being offended. I am a sensitive soul and never one to purposely offend or insult. Personality wise, I am a peacemaker avoiding conflict more often that not. But I am entitled to my own opinions and will speak them from time to time even if they are in contrast with the world at large. I’ve never been accused of being politically correct as so much of my ideals are conservative in nature. I am a Christian and make no apologies for it. But I am also tolerant of others beliefs. I try not to cram my faith down the throats of anyone. I am not a fanatic nor a Bible thumper but I do base my morals and values on what God’s Word says and not what the world says is right and wrong. One thing I do try to practice is forgiveness and understanding. There is enough condemnation in this world without me adding to it. But there is a difference between condemning the person and their behavior. This is probably one of the most valuable lessons I have learned in recent years. It gives me insight on understanding God’s love for us, a fallen creation yet despising our sinful and wrong actions. We’ve heard the saying, “separate the sin from the sinner.” This explains it all.
I remember many years ago when my daughter was very young, 18 months or so, she had hit another child in anger. Quickly, my mother standing by exclaimed in a harsh tone, “you’re a bad girl, good girls don’t hit!” I must admit I was shocked at her attack. I quickly responded, “no, she did a bad thing. She is NOT a bad girl!” Thinking about it still angers me to think that this was and still is a typical response of parents for generations. I recently witnessed a very young mother (16 maybe?) tell a small baby that he was evil because he was slapping at her face with his hands. The child’s body language and facial expression were of playfulness, not anger yet this too young mother was harsh and almost hateful. The child could not have been but 9 months or so. I wonder the emotional scars he will have as an adult if the harsh criticism continues throughout his life. Today, I make a conscious effort to separate a person from their behavior. I may not always communicate it well but I certainly try.
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