In our time of technology that allows us to communicate with anyone, anywhere, it amazes me what people will say to strangers, let alone, loved ones. What we don’t understand is the power of our words. Or, the bigger power of constraint.
If we would think before we ink, the civility of our nation might not be in such turmoil!
When I am stressed, feeling attacked, hungry, or very tired, my words flow freely, especially toward loved ones. I expect them, most of all, to know why I’m acting in such a way and to be understanding. But, if those words cause someone pain, reaches deep inside their consciousness, or breaks the relationship, was it worth the snip? Never!
In an article linked here, “Our Culture of Contempt,” which is explained as “the unsullied conviction of the worthlessness of another,” we have reduced our empathy to zero. We cannot put ourselves in someone’s shoes and contemplate another side.
For Lent, I will attempt to live by what the article suggests to make things better.
• Stop listening to the “rhetorical dope peddlers – the powerful people on your own side who are profiting from the culture of contempt.”
• Commit to never treat others with contempt, even if they deserve it. Make amends with those I have.
• Respond to contemptuous remarks with warmheartedness and good humor. Try to change one heart – mine! And hope it extends to the contemptuous person attacking me.
Who is with me?
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