Outside, it was a frigid January afternoon in
central Ohio. Inside Staples business had been rather brisk. A jovial “Peyton”
came to my register with many items that totaled up to quite a bit of money.
Peyton handed me several coupons that he hoped would bring down the bottom
line. One by one the cash register gave an explanation as to why the many
coupons were not valid.
Peyton angrily questioned every coupon
rejection as I firmly stated that none of them would work with this
transaction. (My manager wanted me to be firm on this situation.) I asked
Peyton if he wanted any of these items. He gave me a big “no,” and made sure as
he left that everyone knew that this Staples would never again get his
business.
As Peyton stomped out, I did my best to
loudly explain how I couldn’t override the register. (I had no desire to make
any exceptions in giving him what he wanted.) Once Peyton was outside my irritated
thoughts came out in a loud whisper (or my own version of self talk).
Many of the customers waiting to be served
empathized with my frustration. They had heard (and maybe agreed with) the
angry profanity version of “bottom break” that had come out of my mouth. (It
shouldn’t take much thought to come up with what I actually said.)
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could all
honestly admit that we’d never made a mistake (or done anything inappropriate)?
James 3:2 (MSG) says, “We get it wrong
nearly every time we open our mouths. If you could find someone whose speech
was perfectly true, you’d have a perfect person, in perfect control of life.”
The important thing is to allow yourself to
be human (and all that goes with that). Just as God gives you as many chances
as needed to get it right, be patient with yourself (because you will make many
mistakes throughout your life).
I John
4:18 (MSG) states, “There is no room in
love for fear…” Love yourself
enough to not be afraid of your imperfections. It’s what makes you the creation
the Heavenly Father made for you to share with the world. You can believe that
God has wonderful plans for your life (Jeremiah 29:11). Nothing in your
existence (good or bad) will go to waste in His blueprint for your life
Nicely lived and nicely put Robert.
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