"As a child..."wait, let me start over, I hate things that start that way. "When I was young...." shit, that ain't any better....how about...
She made me cry.
A new girl entered the classroom and quietly sat in a corner. The recess bell rang. I took my paper chain, which I had been working on, with me to the playground. I ran up to her, the red and green rings trailing in the air like a kite and with high spirits announced, "Merry Christmas!"
Next thing I knew my butt was on the ground. My whole face hurt. I touched my nose and blood oozed between my fingers. I looked up, and she glared!
"Don't ever say that to me again!"
I lowered my eyes and noticed blood on a thick book she was carrying. Tears fell.
In that one instance, my entire belief in Jesus and Christmas came into question.
There are many "Why" questions to ask. Since this isn't a treatise on religion, let me get to the point. People will believe what they are taught to believe or what they seek to believe that helps them on their spiritual journey. It's not our place to hit them in the nose with books because we think they are wrong.
Respect what others believe. Honor their space. If you want to spread the word of how wonderful your faith works for you, please do so, but not by saying that others are wrong. Teach love by example. Teach faith by example. Teach forgiveness by example. Live your faith and you will be a beacon of light for others who are searching.
The phrase, "Happy Holidays" has grown on me. The expression is one you can use to greet strangers with respect.
I wish you all a Happy Holiday!
Sonja
December, 2022
Comentarios