Underestimate

 "Don’t underestimate me. I know more than I say, think more than I speak, and notice more than you realize.” (Anonymous)

Have you ever had those moments in life when someone upsets you so badly either verbally (or in writing) that you figure the best reply is to ignore the comment completely (by saying very little). To angrily say how you really feel could have disastrous relationship results wherever it happened (or with whomever it occurred).

If I get upset enough about a situation, my tact button becomes broken. From what I’m told my sense of angry irritation comes through clearly on Messenger (or private message on Facebook).  I should listen more to that little voice in my head that pleads with me, “Please don’t do this.” Speaking honestly (with my temper mixed) has either severed close relationships, or damaged other ones that took years to repair.

The truth (whether you like it or) is that you cannot always speak your mind in every situation if you wish others to remain your friends. That small voice in your head is known as your conscience (or the Holy Spirit).  I don’t think it will ever lead you to do the wrong thing. This is easier said than done. We need to give out more grace than vengeance.

Who knows what negative life situation the person your speaking with could have experienced minutes ago before you began to converse with them?  Chances are their irritation has nothing to do with you (but something or someone else). Iyanla Vanzant says this, and she is right: “More often than not the things we detest and judge in others are a reflection about the things we cannot accept about ourselves.”

Matthew 7:1-5 (MSG) says this: “Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, [and] criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It’s easy to see a smudge on your neighbor’s face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, ‘Let me wash your face for you,’ when your own face is distorted by contempt? It’s this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.

Where do you stand in relation to what you say (or write)? Does more kindness need to become part of your daily lifestyle? How can you make that happen immediately? Do you wish to be a discourager (or an encourager)? Only you can make the right choice.