… Brace yourself. Today, I was inspired by some dude who decided to “let it all out” after an interesting semester for him. I truly believe in speaking your mind, just as long as it doesn’t hurt someone else why you do so. This year has taught me a lot of things about myself and other people. For one, I can say that I am a changed person when it comes to relationships. I remember being so impatient with other’s mishaps, not even giving them a second chance to explain themselves, much less make things right. To me, it was no excuse for how people treated others but I believe with each sour or fallen relationship or one that has passed the true test of time, I’ve come to see that this is what relationships are all about–love, patience, and acceptance.

However, I have come to the realization that people are naturally self-centered. It’s within us to think of ourselves first, who could blame us? It’s part of our character–and the only thing that can change that is discipline and the work of God within us. This year, I tried to stop thinking about myself, stop asking ‘what about me?’ It’s hard too when some people intentionally push your buttons just to see the ‘demon of impatience and aggravation’ rise from within you. It takes strength not to snap at them.

My question: why is this your purpose? Why is it your goal to see someone squirm or fall from the grace they’re in? Why must you tempt someone into such a state? I’m confused by it all and wish I knew all the answers to every conflict in life. Don’t get me wrong, some people are clueless to how they can offend someone–it is not at all their intention but tell me, if you’re laughing when you’ve just offended someone, can that be considered something unintentional? Something you didn’t mean to do? I think not. It’s really not funny and you should know that, if the person is not laughing with you. Take off the blinders and see how you’ve hurt them. Stop trying to be a comedian or the so-called happy go lucky person and realize it’s time to make amends. Don’t brush it off and say ‘they’ll get over it,” because that might never come. Sad enough, that is how feuds begin. Someone didn’t think it was necessary to apologize for their wrong, and the other wasn’t ready to let it go. Either way, the two are in the wrong and ignorance–intentional or not is one of the reasons for it.

Nonetheless, the Heavenly Father says one should turn the other cheek when someone slaps you. I’d happily do so but if that person knows this truth, how about you stop trying to slap me? It’s okay that I’ll turn the other cheek but I only have two; after a while, it gets old, gets annoying. Life is too short for nonsensical arguments or teasings that provoke a heart to anger. The Word said if you’re doing something to make a brother or sister sin, you’re sinning as well. I believe that with every conflict, we must all look within ourselves and ask ‘wait… did I do anything that caused this person to react that way?’ instead of ‘what’s your problem? stop overreacting.’ Most conflicts involve two or more people, not just someone with a bad day or bad life.

But in conclusion, I want this next phase of my life to be without nonsensical conflicts, ones that could be stopped in a matter of seconds. I don’t want to harbor grudges with anyone. It’s time to end all that. The Lord is coming at a time we least expect it.

Let’s live and love as Christ wants us to.