In my heart, my “mind’s eye”, in my spirit, I see a world in harmony, peaceful. An inclusive world of mercy, understanding, and acceptance. A world in which people are kind, patient, and give generously to each other without fear of being without. A world in which we hold ourselves accountable and gracefully accept the consequences of our actions. A world in which we sincerely apologize if we have done harm (Intentionally or unintentionally), repent of the behavior, are forgiven, and become reconciled to the other party. I believe in a world in which justice is served; definitive and decisive steps are taken to correct inequities. I believe this can happen, that we can enjoy the world I envision, and that we can experience real progress in this transformation during our lifetimes.
One of the main hurdles we have to overcome in order to achieve this glorious state of communion is to decide to reject the habit of allowing ourselves to be perpetually offended. As I have regarded the news and read through various posts on social networking platforms in recent months, my heart has become increasingly grieved by this phenomenon. It is truly astounding how proficient we have become at being profoundly offended by anyone whom does not agree with our point of view, the mistakes and choices people make, or differing perspectives on issues which ruffle our feathers.
My observation is that humanity (cultures/ethnicities/nations) has grown to embrace the spirit of offense so deeply we can’t pardon or forgive the ignorance or shortcomings of others. We have become so intransigent, we often refuse to even consider (let alone respect) the sensibilities and merits of another person’s point of view. Every day we witness judgment being chosen over mercy, disdain over tolerance, and dismissiveness over kindness. It appears this visceral, negative reaction has become reflexive; no thought required; no heart engaged. And this happens so frequently day after day we are desensitized to its toxicity; accepting that becoming offended, escalating tensions, and sowing discord as the norm.
I have come to see allowing ourselves to descend into the abyss of offense as an indulgence of our egos; ceding control of our thoughts, mouths & emotions to our fears, selfishness and even bigotry. We allow things like the words, actions and beliefs of others, political affiliations, and the circumstances (within or beyond our control) of our lives determine the state of our minds and affect our ability to empathize and relate to people who don’t look, think, speak, behave, or believe like us. And because misery loves company, we feel compelled to spread vitriol and share our offense to anyone online or within earshot.
Do you think we could change our world (homes/neighborhoods/communities/cities/states/nations) if we stopped complaining or vilifying publicly, and held our tongues? What might happen if we weren’t hypersensitive about words and issues, and didn’t jump down people’s throats for ignorance, misspeaking, or taking a misstep.
What if we showed people mercy (just as we would like to receive in the face of our own mistakes and oversights) instead of passing judgment? What if instead of laying on the horn, flipping the bird, cutting off, tailgating, or barking at the inconsiderate driver, we remained calm, peaceful and drove in a way to make the environment as safe as we can for the other people on the road? What if we stopped posting pictures of other people’s gaffes and peccadilloes, and instead focused our time on chronicling, photographing & praising kindness, generosity, and the good works people do?
What if we refrained from putting expectations on other people and crucifying them when they fall short? What if we asked questions and sought to understand rather than passing judgment, criticizing and pontificating? What if we loved our neighbor as we love ourselves?
The really wonderful revelation is that we can accomplish this and change the world, one person, one heart at a time, beginning with the person we see in the mirror… I have postured my heart to look at my brothers and sisters on this earth with empathy and love, and dedicated myself to speaking life into people and situations. I do my best to embrace mercy over judgment, tolerance over criticism, and share what I have without fear of lack. I am by no means perfect in this effort, but I succeed many more times than I fail. It is a resolve, a commitment to freeing my heart, elevating the quality of my relationships, and transforming the environments in which I function.
The spirit of offense is a persistent cancer in our world, and together we can attack and eradicate it. With loving spirits, we can change our thoughts, words, and actions, which in turn can heal our culture, one heart at a time.
Will you join me?
Life With Love 