I find it easy to become impatient with people. It mainly boils down to not seeing eye to eye on how to do a task, or having the same opinion on a world view. It can be so simple to be narrow visioned. Seeing only a certain way everything should be done or thought about. It is a challenge to be able to have an understanding for the way someone else views or does things in their own life. The truth is that we are not always going to agree with everybody about everything; and that is okay. What I am reminded of as I mature in this life, is the importance of taking a walk in someone else’s shoes for a moment. It helps to gain perspective in where they are coming from, why they make the choices they make, why they think the way they think, and why they do the things they do. I do not have to necessarily agree with those actions, thoughts and motives, yet it allows me to have a clearer understanding of where that person is coming from. In fact, it helps me to love them. To see passed the characteristics that distract me from loving them just because I do not share in those traits. We are called to love each other. It is as simple as that. To love our friends, family, neighbours, and even our enemies. It is a large task that can seem overwhelming on a daily basis. If we can just take a minute and actually see where someone is coming from, we may be able to have a little more compassion and understanding. This can allow us to extend a little more love in their direction when we feel we have lost all patience.

1 Thessalonians 5:13-15 (MSG)

Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other’s nerves you don’t snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out.

What a clear depiction of love… “Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out.” I really love that line. If I can walk in someones shoes, gain perspective and understanding in their life, then I can find the best in them and bring it out to the best of my ability. Will it work every time – no. That is not my job to worry about. I just need to do my part and pray that they will do theirs. There are days I need you to walk in my shoes to see where I am coming from and days I need to walk in yours. This is us working together to live our journey true.

∼live your journey true∼