Pain does that to one, I suppose, and as I can't lash out at my own body, and going head-to-head with God is kinda stupid, well...
But there is a way out of anger. The sonnet below first appeared as a comment to Debi Walter's blog, The Romantic Vineyard.
A mild answer turns the wrath,
so does the Bible tell,
for anger's the red-lit path
that leads us straight to hell.
Irritation's like a bird
that alights in our hair,
but it would clearly be absurd
to allow it nesting there.
Humility's the greatest grace
to move hot rage along
for we've been in the other's place;
we also have done wrong.
So smile, forgive, don't make a fuss,
'cause God knows, and has forgiven, us.
Music from Billy Joel, with Pressure
Thanks to Carol Ashby, Blessed Are The Pure Of Heart is back on Kindle, and will be available in paperback soon.
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Humility's the greatest grace
ReplyDeleteto move hot rage along
for we've been in the other's place;
we also have done wrong.
So smile, forgive, don't make a fuss,
'cause God knows, and has forgiven, us.
Andrew, it seems like in every area of my life, I've been allowing irritation to nest and even house some eggs!! I needed wisdom to "move me along" . Thank you. Thank you. Oh that I could bear your pain for at least a day. Just so hoping for the 'enter his peace' kinda rest for you, friend. Everyday. Let it be so, Jesus.
Jane, thank you so much for this; it makes it all worthwhile, that you found something useful in my words.
DeleteAnd the thought of wanting to bear my pain for a day...this means so much, as does your beautiful prayer.
Humility doesn't mean thinking you're not valuable, it means knowing your place.
ReplyDeleteJan, spot on! You nailed it.
DeleteAndrew, the picture of irritation building a nest in my hair is so vivid! Thanks for the exhortation to let go of irritation quickly, and to hold the perspective that I, too, have irritated others. When I remember this, it's easier to not stay irritated with someone else.
ReplyDeleteSending you prayers and gentle hugs, friend.
Jeanne, I'm so glad you foun this useful!
DeleteThank you so much for the prayers and hugs.
((((Andrew))))
ReplyDeleteTell Alex Trebek how it's done!
Annie In Texas
((((((Annie!))))))
DeleteI've been praying for Mr. Trebek; he's been such a symbol of humour and decency.