The longer I live, the less I know
Sometimes we forget where we started. Sometimes we forget that there was a time we thought we knew everything and really, we didn’t. The most humbling thing is to see another person, back where you once were and seeing that person making your same mistakes.
Here is the thing, 10 years from now, I will look back at this person I am now and realize I still know nothing. I know more than I did at 26, but less than I will at 46.
But we are all on this journey together. And we can’t help along anyone if we divide and ostracize others.
Tonight I was reading my prayers and I came across James 4:11-12:
Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who slanders a brother, or condemns him, is speaking against the Law and condemning the Law. But if you condemn the Law, you have stopped keeping it and become a judge over it. There is only one lawgiver and he is the only judge and has the power to acquit or to sentence. Who are you to give a verdict on your neighbor?
So many want to condemn their parents when they make mistakes. Yes, your mom probably screwed up raising you. But, she did the best she could at the time and telling her she sucks isn’t going to inspire her to grow.
We condemn our spouses. Yes, he probably could have tried harder to get that raise, but your belittling him isn’t really gonna do much to get him inspired to keep going. Maybe the house isn’t spotless but I am pretty sure she wasn’t eating bon bons all day and could use a “thanks, wife, for loving us and taking care of us. You rock” every now and then.
We condemn those who step up as leaders in church groups, in social movements, we slash people down. We focus on our shortcomings instead of on our heart and intent. There really are things to be inspired by, there are good things you can focus on. And no, you don’t ignore the bad, but you do help where you can in love.
There really are enough people out there out to get us without having to defend ourselves constantly from those who are supposed to love us and are on the same team.
Lovingly inspire. Pitch in, step up, work together. Every member of the team, family, movement is needed. Share your love, not your hate.
