Peaceful

Q: “How do you live with people you don’t get along with? How do you keep from going off on them when they make you mad?”

v Allena K., Akron, OH (Youth with a Mission)

A: My curious daughter, Romans 12:18 (MSG) says, “If you got it in you, get along with everybody.” Our world is full of so much variety when it comes to the human race. Chances are you won’t always agree with (or even like) all the people you will be meet during your lifetime. Below are some tips in keeping your current existence peaceful in a world full of turmoil.

1.   “Choose your battles wisely” This clever saying can apply to any human relationship in life. Before you tell someone off for something they did wrong (in your eyes), you’re your words give you the desired end result you want from the offender? (Probably not.)

2.   “Edit your comments because less is always more” Not everything that comes into your brain needs to exit unedited out of your mouth into another person’s life. Though you can apologize for angry, hurtful comments made to someone, the words can never be forced back into your mouth.

Visualize pulling nails out of a piece of wood. The hole is always there even if it’s puttied over. Ultimately, Colossians 4:6 (MSG) states what everyone’s communication goal with others should be. “Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.”

3.   “Chill out” Calm down. Before you allow your verbal diarrhea to spew out on others, can your statement be said less harshly (or offensive)? Bluntness is not a virtue when it comes to arguing. Actually, it’s a barrier.

Remember, you have no idea what caused the wrongdoer to speak as they did. Who knows what might be churning inside them. Can you see this whole situation from their point of view? It might help to explain a lot of things about the horrible circumstances you are currently in (or have been in).

4.   “Forgive and forget” This will free you from the worst parts of your anger. Let it go. Chances are the other individual has moved on emotionally, and forgotten all about the disagreement. You are the only one still holding that grudge.

I wish I could tell you that I always follow my own advice. Sometimes, I succeed and other times I fail miserably with those I care about the most. You’ve lived in our home on Mistletoe Court. Life could often be more like a tumultuous war zone than a calming island retreat.

I am really hoping this post can help you. Allena, you mean the world to me. I am excited about the positive changes happening in your life. I would love to answer any future questions you have for me.