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How Do You See?

Chad

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How Do You See? - January 21, 2006

I don't like to admit this but I've been feeling a little down lately.
It seems that in the media recently there has been one case after another of children missing, murders committed, and portrayals of senseless violence.
Being a caring person, it is not uncommon for me to shed a few tears, even over complete strangers, and to wish that I could assist these people and their families some way. And so, this last week or two, I have felt a drop in my spirit; a discouragement over how low mankind can sometimes stoop.

This morning, something I said to a family member came to my mind. You see, this relative was having a hard time forgiving another relative of something done nearly thirty years ago. During our discussion this person dredged up numerous negative memories of her dealings with this other person. All she focused on were the sad times; periods when this other person had not lived up to her expectations, or may have reacted to her in a way that was not as warm or patient as she would have preferred.

My response to her was this, "Yes, I know you carry some hurts with you regarding this person, but is it really fair to only focus on her negative traits? What about also recalling the happier times; moments when this person made you feel loved, cared for and special? Can you be fair enough to also look at the positive side of her, and not just the negative?"

The person responded, "I've never thought of it that way. I'll try to do that!"
As I ponder this matter and apply it to my own recent emotions over mankind's often violent and cruel streak, I realize that, like this relative, I am not being fair. I am only looking at one side of the coin, and judging the whole of civilization unfairly. I am focusing on the negative acts, and not putting forth the same effort to see that many people do reach out in love.

I have since come to the conclusion that newspaper and television is not the best place to hear about positives. After all, the media tends to prefer to report on issues that hold great drama, and as such, hearing about a boy scout who helped an elderly woman cross the street, or a lady who gave all the money in her purse to feed a homeless man does not typically make exciting news headlines.

There is an old saying that goes something like, "If you look for the evil in mankind, you will find it, but if you look for the good in man, you will find that as well." Shame on me for briefly forgetting this truth.

In similar manner, if we turn our backs on God, He will seem very distant. However, if we seek Him and His truth, there will be no denying His reality.

Contributed by Melanie Schurr
 
Chad said:
How Do You See? - January 21, 2006


There is an old saying that goes something like, "If you look for the evil in mankind, you will find it, but if you look for the good in man, you will find that as well." Shame on me for briefly forgetting this truth.

In similar manner, if we turn our backs on God, He will seem very distant. However, if we seek Him and His truth, there will be no denying His reality.

Contributed by Melanie Schurr

Great words
 
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