“If their name isn’t ‘God, ‘their opinion doesn’t matter and their approval isn’t needed” (Teddy A.)
One of the great things about living in
America is that you are allowed to have (and voice) your opinion on a variety
of topics (like other’s actions, religion, and politics). Jesus had opinions about a lot of different
topics in the gospels. I estimate that 98% of the time He spoke them in a
manner that others could accept.
Today,
individuals can get easily upset over something like an opposing political
opinion that is perceived as hurtful (or judgmental). Of course, I feel there
is never a problem to verify the facts behind an opinion. (The only downside to
a person like this is that “blind trust” does not come easily to them.) I do believe variety makes life worth living
(and is the spice of life). Would you really want everyone to be a carbon copy
of yourself? (I will answer that, “no.” There are times I get so irritated with
myself that I can hardly stand it.)
In
my home, Bobbi and I have made a rule (that sometimes works and other times
doesn’t). We are successful (at times) in respecting each other’s diverse
political opinions. On the whole, we make a habit to
avoid discussing or viewing on TV material that could throw us into an intense,
angry political discussion. (I figure anything of real importance will eventually show up
on Facebook.)
In
the extended picture of our relationship together (27 years at this venture), I
feel our marriage is far more important than our opinions. Even if my wife
should give a political comment that I don’t like, I do my best (most of the
time) to remain silent as I consider what is most important at that moment (my
love and respect for my life partner, Bobbi).
Proverbs 18:2
(ERV) says: Fools
don’t want to learn from others. They only want to tell their own ideas. Part of growing in
wisdom as a person is to learn from the mistakes of others and avoid them. A
wise person knows the right time to speak out (and to be silent). How can you
know what’s going on with others unless you’re trying to understand and listen
totally (with everything you have)? Remember, that your opinion may not
necessarily need to be known at the moment. May god guide as you decide the words that
need to come out your mouth (and what should stay in your head). The choice is
yours. [i]
[i] The topic of “political opinions” was suggested by
friend and blog member, Pam Nowicki.
No comments:
Post a Comment