Some Words of Wisdom (from Today's Reading)

It's cool when we get those moments of clarity or an "ah-ha" from something we read or hear. Many times it is words, phrases or scripture that we have heard over and over but it makes perfect sense today or is completely relevant to the present situation...I believe God's timing is always perfect and His way of being present in our situation.

I have several books and devotionals that I like to read from each morning. This message from my Courage to Change book was helpful to me and I want to share it...ENJOY...

In the past, forgivness meant power to me. I could judge an offender--the person wasn't doing what I wanted them to do (or thought they should do)--and then exercise my power by showing that I could rise above the offense and magnanimously bestow my forgiveness. But I would never forget what had been done. Today I know that forgiveness has nothing to do with
power. It does not give me control. Forgiveness is simply a reminder that I am on equal footing with every other child of God. We all do good and noble things at times; on other occasions we may offend. I have no right to judge, punish, or absolve anyone. When I behave self-rightously, I'm the one who suffers--I separate myself from my fellow human beings, focus on others, and keep busy with hateful and negative thoughts. By taking this attitude I tell myself that I am a victim, so I remain a victim. The most forgiving thing I can do is to remember that my job is not to judge others, but to think and behave in a way that lets me feel good.

TODAY's REMINDER--I don't know the motives or circumstances that cause another's behavior. I do know that when I hold onto resentment and blame, I occupy my spirit with bitterness. Today I will find a more nurturing way to fill myself up.

"YOU CAN'T HOLD A MAN DOWN WITHOUT STAYING DOWN WITH HIM."

Booker T. Washington

We often spend time focusing on the actions and attitudes of others and then we seem to have a deep need to comment on their actions or attitudes either to them (nag) or to someone else (gossip). Alot of energy is spent on others in a futile attempt to change them or let them know we are not approving of them and/or their behavior.

I'm not sure as to why we do this, but I have decided that I don't want to do it anymore.

Be patient and give me some time. Old habits are hard to break!