HOW TO HANDLE WORDS...

7 Jan 2017

In my circle of friends, there is a person I thoroughly delight in - personality-wise, intelligence-wise, spiritually-speaking... We have many differences, but mostly we connect really well. It is one of those friendships you know God has initiated for a reason. BUT.... every once in a while, this person will say something to me in a way that is really hurtful. Not on purpose, I'm certain. As a matter of fact, I think this manner of expression is so deeply anchored, that only others notice it, because my friend seems oblivious of the impact of those words!

Confronted with another such an episode yesterday, and yet again trying not to retaliate, but just quietly wondering why... I actually did ask myself if it wasn't time to end the friendship...? Was it worth feeling this way every now and again for the sake of whatever God had in mind...?

While a part of me is tired of getting "beaten up" this way (I do exaggerate mildly...😂), I have also noticed that every incident allowed me to reflect upon my own "power of perception / interpretation". Whenever I chose to ignore my own distracting emotions connected with an incident, I found compassion and wisdom guiding me toward understanding WHY the person had reacted that way or used that choice of words.

After pondering quite a while upon this, I realized that I have actually become more mature since the friendship started! I have learned how I should myself be careful with words and ways of expressing myself, how my interpretation of people and situations and WORDS can be biased and how "dying to self" can save relationships...!

Words are also fruit that translate a deeper condition. We all should remember that BEFORE we speak, but also before we react on the words of others: the condition of our own soul filters through our words and bias or interpretation.

If we can break past the barrier of words (i.e be slow to anger, 1Cor 13, etc) and reach the hurting heart behind the words, I am certain that we will be amazed at the outcome!

If you are upset today with a friend because of words, choose to move beyond that and delve deeper - you might just discover diamonds...!😊