Sometimes I’m a slow learner.
Lately I’ve been contemplating relationships among genders and among diverse cultural groups. I knew the last one wouldn’t get as many “likes.” It’s difficult for many people to comprehend.
I guess the reason I don’t share many of the attitudes of my western Ohio peer group is that I didn’t have a close peer group growing up. Pretty much a loner, although not be (my) choice. But then also, I’ve traveled extensively and learned to work with people from all over the world. You should develop a sensitivity to other people doing that. I know some retain their prejudices. But I really didn’t.
When I pray, I pray for lots of people. Today I was praying for a family where one member faced a difficult surgery. That was special. There are many more.
One day not too long ago I suddenly realized that I could pray for myself. It would be OK. In fact, I think God likes that. Kind of like the guy in the Temple that Jesus talked about who looked down at the ground and asked God to have mercy–on himself.
It really never occurred to me to pray for myself. I’m always living in the world of ideas or thinking about other people.
It isn’t narcissistic to think of yourself. Just don’t dwell on it. Or forget about other people. Or put Jesus first.
Guess what? I felt better. Actually almost somewhat relieved. So many people have so much worse issue than I. It seems trivial. But then, it is me who has to live with me. And if I don’t take care of that, then I can make life miserable for people around me.
While praying for your list, it’s OK to stop and say, God, I’ve got this little problem that I’d like for you to fix or show me the way. It’s a good thing.
Good relationships with others begin with a good relationship with ourselves.
Faith Venture 
March 1, 2016 at 12:50 pm |
Your comments are true for me. As you say, it is me who has to live with me! I pray often for myself, mainly for help with things. It took me many years to figure out your last statement: my relationship with myself–that is where it all starts.
March 1, 2016 at 8:56 pm |
Hi Emily, good to hear from you. Some of us rather ignore ourselves; some of us dwell upon ourselves. Neither is healthy.