I used to only become close to people who thought/felt/believed pretty much the same way I did. I was more comfortable that way. I didn't have to be nervous about losing an argument. I didn't have to feel either inferior or superior. My foundations were not shaken. I didn't have to "prove" anything. (Can you tell that I'm terribly competitive by nature?) I am also a black and white person by nature. I remember early on in our marriage Michael (also a black and white person) and I were arguing about the reality of something and finally he just said, "You know, both of us could be right. It doesn't have to be one way or the other." I was SHOCKED. Truly. It still took me years to believe that. :)
Now I can get into a respectful debate with someone and not feel like I have to win or not feel superior/inferior. I let God prove Himself more these days. I'm still very passionate and, like Peter, my mouth can get me in all kinds of trouble when I talk before I think but my passion has at least been laced with more respect, more love, and more empathy. (please don't think I've "arrived" or even have the slightest feeling that I have arrived) I pray that God will continue to grow these things in me. I know that even in my over zealous youth God still used me and the stand I made for Him. God can do anything. However, I like who God is transforming me into. Does that sound arrogant? I don't mean it to. ALL the credit goes to Him. I like that I don't always have to "say what I think" (although most of the time I still have a hard time keeping my mouth shut) but can just listen and pray for God's wisdom. I like that sisters in the Lord are teaching me to understand that it matters where a person is at in their walk with the Lord. Truth ALWAYS matters but there is a way and a time to say it. Thank-you God for not giving up on me and my big mouth and for transforming my sisters and brothers to look more and more like You.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
I've always appreciated your very carefully stated opinions and kindness in comments. You are a wise woman indeed.:)
Some of the best relationships and conversations I have ever experienced were with people with whom I disagreed. It's a good thing. :)
This is a wonderful piece of advice that we all need to heed from time to time. I tell my kids that the key to maintaining healthy relationships will many time rest on their ability to say these words: "I think I'm right, but I may be wrong."
Post a Comment