Of course, I was the first one in the circle to have to answer the question, but I think often the quick answers are the most truthful. I said that if I honestly subjected myself to others out of reverence for Christ, my life would probably change in that I would take a little more time to stop and look at things from the perspectives of those around me. This is something that I do consciously attempt to practice, but I am the first to admit that I, at times, get tunnel vision in regards to my personal goals and ambitions and slip into the mindset that everything should go exactly as I have planned. But, as most of you have already figured out, life rarely ties itself up with such a perfect, neat little bow.
Another thought-provoking statement from the study said, "Submission is not putting another under our authority. Submission is laying down the terrible burden of always needing to get our own way." Whether you're "religious" or not, I think you can find some truth in these words. It's difficult to live with the drive, the passion, the obsession of achieving a perfect perspective in an imperfect world. If we live with the insistence that we always be right, then more often than not, most of us will be sorely disappointed. I look at today's celebrities and political figures, and all I see is arguing for the sake of arguing. And usually, the two opposing sides are not posing their arguments directly to one another...instead, they fight their battles passive aggressively through the media, firing barbs at one another without ever actually coming face to face.
Perhaps, it's a little too idealistic, but I'd like to just see people sit down and talk it out. Maybe Obama wasn't that far off when he had the white police officer and the black professor sit down for a beer together. Did it resolve all the issues? No, I'm sure it didn't. But it allowed the two sides to speak directly to one another on a somewhat neutral turf. It gave them the forum to listen to one another and attempt to understand where the other was coming from. Does listening and understanding another perspective mean you agree with it? No, it doesn't, but at least you're able to get a clearer idea of the source...and, hopefully, gain a little respect for your adversary.
Recently, I've been a witness to one situation that could use this sort of understanding, and - unfortunately - I've been a participant in another. It's difficult when frustrations build up because of a lack of direct communication, but that is exactly what has happened in both of these cases. I think it's time for all parties concerned - myself included - to grow up and show a little respect to one another...and maybe this is just the opportunity for me to stand up, speak up, and be an example. I don't believe it's necessary for me to agree with the opposing side in either case, but it is necessary for me show respect for another human being trying to make his or her way through this world. We all get misguided as we stumble along in life, and we have to be willing to accept the advice necessary to correct our own paths, just as we have to be willing to reach out a hand to help guide others back to theirs.
Some new goals I'm adding to my list are to listen carefully, speak up when it's right, and show a great deal more respect. I'm sure it won't always go smoothly. The imperfections tend to find a way to intervene with the most perfect plans. But I'm still willing to give it a try.
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