We all have words and decisions we would like back.
Be it a moment of weakness, a boiling point reached, or a line crossed, we have all said or done something we would later regret. In those moments we think our eruption of emotions will bring us satisfaction, peace, and even vindication. Unfortunately, our temper tantrums rarely deliver on that promise. More often they leave us, and those nearest, frustrated, disappointed, and hurt.
On the opposite end of the spectrum we can elect for the complete absence of engagement. While this protects the practitioner, at least initially, the unwillingness to emotionally participate can prove itself even more destructive to both parties.
“The hotheaded do things they’ll later regret;
the coldhearted get the cold shoulder.”
How then are we to navigate complex and frustrating interpersonal relationships? The unsatisfying and long-suffering answer is with love and patience. For love and patience are the hallmarks of a life characterized by wisdom. It is only when we put ourselves, and our needs, above others that we can justify an outburst of anger or indifference.
“If what we call love doesn’t take us beyond ourselves, it is not really love. If we have the idea that love is characterized as cautious, wise, sensible, shrewd, and never taken to extremes, we have missed the true meaning. This may describe affection and it may bring us a warm feeling, but it is not a true and accurate description of love.”
Love is far more than mere promises of reciprocity and should take us beyond self-interest. Let us take a step back from ourselves this week, realign our perception of love, and exude a renewed grace.