It is easy to be deluded. Just read the paper, update yourself via the web, or delve into the latest gossip. Everywhere is a story, line of logic, or piece of information stretching the bounds of your imagination. Is it true? Could this really be the facts? If you haven’t found yourself being nudged off the path by false promises, exaggeration, and misleading information, perhaps a bit of self examination is in order. There are too many times I find myself mouthing words even I know to be short of truth.
My real question isn’t about being deluded. My curiosity is about how one reacts with the discovery that someone else is deluded. The clues are all around us. Examples include the simple statements made in response to a question, the puzzling actions taken by an otherwise logical person, or the verbal barrage in response to an otherwise innocent situation. When one person was questioned about Jesus the response was na?ve, simple, and in conflict with the actions; “Yes, Master. All along I have believed that you are the Messiah, the Son of God who comes into the world.” (John 11.27) The examples do not end there. British politics is full of examples of individuals losing their way if only for an instance, which in turn causes waves of grief, pain, and recriminations on lives otherwise noted for their integrity and honour.
In an age where truth is illusive and evil abounds, my response to the deluded follows these lines.
Our response needs to be in the present and future. This doesn’t mean ignoring the past, just learning and moving forward.
Compassion and empathy are more important than being “right”.
If love if the key, then teamwork is the answer. We are here to nurture and support each other on our journeys.
On a good day life is tough. I find myself exhausted and drained yet encouraged by gifts of hope from those around me. If I can do anything, I can share hope with those who need it even more than I.
