“Would you like your biryani hot or with the regular spice?”
Life instantly reminded me to leave my bravado at home.
“Regular is just fine. Thank you for asking.”
The dish that arrived was a work of art on a plate. Vibrant colours, amazing smells, and a gentle steam set the stage. With the first bite, I was transported to my childhood and the comfort food that sustained us. As I went for the second spoonful, I could feel something tingling in the back of my throat. With an oh-so-brief alert, the spice in the dish hit the back of my throat! I was back in the days of hard-hitting spices, facial sweat, and the battle to continue. As good as the flavours were, the spice hit was brutal.
Brutality in all its forms destroys. Relationship-related brutality is among the most painful, as it lasts and lasts within without a mark outside. Examples include gossip, slander, and sarcasm. Each is often seen as a white lie, a hint of smoke hiding an implied thread of alleged truth. I am reminded of the brutality I inflicted on friends and others close to me. As I remember, I hope every individual was able to accept my apology then and now, as I reflect on the truth-filled reminder that “Brutality stupefies even the wise and destroys the strongest heart.” (Ecclesiastes 7.7)
Standing up for those who cannot stand for themselves is an opportunity to represent Divinity. I do not believe I have any excuse to sit idly by and watch it happen. In response to the casual conversation that includes brutal words, I can speak with compassion. When Evil threads itself into the seams of the relationships in the moment, I can bring care and kindness to the fore.
Healing can occur at any time. One may think brutal words and actions are buried in past, never to be mentioned again. Life reminds me that healing words and actions never expire. They will bring hope, restoration, and even a fresh creation within, when and where it is most needed.
