As often happens, Sunday Mass renews my perspective. Over the last week, I’ve been struggling with how things are going, especially here in the US.
Today’s readings and homily reminded me of what my response should be in the face of upset and violence: gentleness.
The now-retired long-time pastor of my former parish was filling in at church this morning. Along with Scripture passages, the homily referenced the Aesop fable of the wind and the sun competing to get a man to take off his coat. No matter how violently the wind blew, it could not remove the man’s coat, but the gentle rays of the sun soon warmed the man to the point that he removed his coat.
It was a reminder to me that however upset I am with the disrespect and violence in our culture, my response must be gentleness and understanding. I am not generally one to fight fire with fire, but the reminder was welcome. Don’t despair or fear, but keep on gently speaking and abiding in truth and peace.
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Joanne Corey 
Great post!
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Thanks!
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This is an excellent thought to post Joanne, I agree. Being gentle may appear weak but it drives the bullies of this world mad.
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Sometimes speaking quietly can get others to quiet themselves to listen. I’ve seen parents and teachers use this to great effect.
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Such a timely and valuable reminder! Thank you.
Regarding our own political environment I often find myself feeling very frustrated at the injustice and unfairness (if not BLATANT law breaking) of actions by our current Government.
I’ve also recently had experiences within community group I have been involved in. I rang up and discussed my course of action with our Pastor, and he advised that I actually move away from the situation, but that I also move forward in the opposite spirit. So rather than being apathetic and critical and judgmental I make a conscious effort to be kind and positive and take action where there was none. – Set an example. This helped me move through this time with only a small amount of stress.
Wonderful, timely post. Thanks for sharing.
Miss Lou
xx
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Thank you for visitng and sharing, too!
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🙂
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