As a hospital chaplain I have come to realize that when people express their feelings, they are just that...feelings. Feelings are neither good or bad... they just are. When I hear someone express a negative view I realize it is their perception of a person, place, or situation. I can choose whether or not to make it mine, but would never do so without trying t out myself.
When I look at things this way I realize that a person should not be judged on a one time experience or comment. I would rather try to discover a trend in their thought. I have probably been guilty of being somewhat negative when I have been going through some rough times. When my 38 yo SIL was diagnosed with bladder cancer I really felt down. Those two kids don't need this kind of thing. Luckily, I have been able to place that situation at My Lord's feet. He is far better equipped to handle the situation than I am. I hope that if I expressed that sadness here, I will be forgiven, or at least forgotten. LOL
What I am trying to say, and possibly badly, it that we need to respect everyone's opinion even when we disagree with it. This freedom of self expression has been won for us by many hero's lives.
|