Hurt, Offended, Healing

Earlier this week, someone that I have served with and whom I thought upon as a friend wrote some very hurtful things to me. I was deeply shaken and dumbfounded. How could they? Why would anyone write words like that? Especially when I do not think they meant to offend me...or at least that is what they wrote after unleashing horrible things. How is it that we can open our mouths (or write), "I do not meant to offend or hurt you but_________"? We can almost guarantee that what ever is in the blank WILL BE HURTFUL and OFFENSIVE? Is that the hidden meaning behind those simple words? Then I realized that written words are easily misunderstood. Not everyone has the blessing to be raised by true disciples of Christ who taught me, "No one will care how much you know until they know how much you care." Or "you would think less of what other people think of you if you knew how little they did (think of you)." This meaning that we are inherently selfish creatures who are too wrapped up in ourselves and our own problems to be too worried about trivial things in another. I have given my money, time, and sacrificed to this cause and person (who represents this cause) for many years now--at times feeling guilty for the personal sacrifices it has cost me (like missing family time, personal time, recreation/hobby/talent TIME). Can you sense a theme? Time is so short and valuable to me right now. I have so little of it to do so much in it seems lately. I came across this thought tonight and it gives me hope that to someone, somewhere, all that I have given up to support others these last many years will have benefited and made the sacrifices worth it. Honestly, I was thinking of Mother Teresa...a true saint among many who profess to be when I stumbled upon it... When you give of yourself something new comes in to being... the world expands, a bit of goodness is brought forth and a small miracle occurs. You must never underestimate this miracle. Too many good people think they have to become Mother Teresa or Albert Schweitzer, or even Santa Claus, and perform great acts if they are to be givers. They don't see the simple openings of the heart that can be practiced anywhere with almost anyone.

Kent Nerburn

American Author and Sculptor

I am trying NOT to close my heart...but to open it and forgive myself and my friend. Heal. Lord, heal my heart and help it to be whole and trusting again. If we were humble, nothing would change us-neither praise nor discouragement.

If someone were to criticize us, we would not feel discouraged.

If someone would praise us, we also would not feel proud.

Mother Teresa