How does one weigh two alternatives when both options involve pain, risk, and will result in unclear or unpredictable results. Further, what does one do when your own involvement in the situations eliminates any ability to make a decision without bias or emotions?
There are several common attributes that influence our view. First, no decision is ever made without some level of emotions involved. In fact, most label any intuitive choice as an emotional one. Second, being involved brings a heightened sensitivity of what will happen to those involved. This can be both good and bad given one’s real or perceived agenda with the other relationships. Third, it is almost too easy to unlink our actions from our words. For integral action both need to be consistent.
When choices are made based on evil, the extreme result is New York. When people reach out to care for others the best of the human spirit lifts and nurtures our steps in life. The fact is that “the words of the wicked kill; the speech of the upright saves.” (Proverbs 12.6) The statement holds true regardless of the origin. Your words and mine can build, or they can tear. Your choice and mine can affirm our love and feelings, or they can expose the worst that hides within.
During the past few days I have seen hands reaching out in love. Friends here and there are suffering, but then we do live in a world inundated with pain and anguish. I am overwhelmed by the loss and yet encouraged and hopeful because of what I see happening all around me. Just imagine if even more understood the hope that is already prepared for them. I can only dream of a world where grace, love, and compassion were the ultimate drivers of every discussion, choice, and action.
Today is yet another where we face difficult circumstances. The pain of yesterday remains, the hope of tomorrow is yet to come, and we live in the present. I choose to build, to create, to give, and to walk; I choose God.
