– The Gospel According to Saint Matthew
If you really want to land a blow at a compulsion, defy it. Do just the opposite of what it says. It is a daring approach which appeals to everyone with a sense of adventure. If somebody has been unkind to you, go out of your way to be kind to him. It can require a lot of endurance simply to be patient with such a person, but we’re talking about more than endurance now; we’re talking about daring.
Try it: there is an exhilaration in it, and a special delight in seeing the other person rub his eyes in disbelief, “I was just rude to him, and now he’s being thoughtful. What’s wrong with him?”
--Eknath Easwaran
I wish I'd read this a few months ago and done my best to put it into practice in my dealings with several people online and off since that time. I didn't. But I've read it today, and it's not too late to take up the "daring" challenge of Easwaran's suggestion. It's not too late for all who read this.
8 comments:
Hey Steve,
Just wanted to drop by and say thanks for the good stuff you've been putting up both here and at TCT. You seem to be on a good roll. Sorry I don't comment more often, but I do read everything you post.
Peace,
Bill
Thanks, Bill. There's a lot more I want to post, but I just haven't been able to find the time. I don't know how in the world you hold down a full-time job, work out, have a love life, and remain as active as you do with your blogs and the wonderful posts you feature in them. You are remarkable and an inspiration.
I'll soon begin posting chapter summaries of one of Tony Robbins' books along with comments about my efforts to apply them to my life. I also want to post more on integral spirituality, politics, and applying integral thinking to understanding and addressing the problems in the Middle East.
Thanks again for your kind and encouraging words.
Namaste,
Steve
How can one expect daring from such a flaccid a man as you?
Great post. I think that there are few things more difficult to do consistently than what you mention in this post. But perhaps also few actions that can bring about more potential personal growth.
Thank you for your kind words, Jason. All the best to you and yours.
Thank you, John. Yes, it IS difficult to do, but I've begun doing it and have already found it surprisingly liberating. :-)
I'm guessing Jason is giving you opportunity to practice?! Well done :-)
great post brother.......
its the only way to break the circle of violence
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