There are those think they are perfect. We know the type and in fact have seen the behavior in ourselves a time or two! One can find arrogance creeping in and defending our personal turf. At other times there is an attitude of condescension towards anything and anybody that is different from one’s self. It is as if we never get tired, have moments of being depressed, or carry any fears, uncertainties, or doubts about the future. We are specimens of perfection. Our attitude says “if you don’t know this, you should. Haven’t you notice this or that examples?”
I watched in quiet horror as an athlete was interviewed about potential drugs found in their blood. Their confidence was beyond description! The words, tone of their voice, and swagger testified to their confidence and perfection as well as to how high they were when they would fall. I am experienced the perfection of youth in the first management assignment. The individual involved knew all the tricks of the trade. They understood people in all their cultural forms. Nuances of character, preferred working styles, and personal values are easily analyzed from their perspective. It is as if they are going to paint by the numbers in management.
Life isn’t that simple. We all carry human weaknesses; even “Jesus, worn out by the trip, sat down at the well.” (John 4.6) We can acknowledge the facts that we get tired, struggle with depression at times, and have weaknesses for a food or beverage or live in a state of ignorance. We can face our demons or deny that they exist. We can respond to our imperfection and take action or flounder in our failure.
It takes courage to admit imperfection. Those who acknowledge, admit, even confess their failures are often ridiculed and scorned. Denial appears to have its own rewards. Cover-up is considered an honorable option. Nothing could be further from the truth! Life begins with our flaws, especially if we are willing to accept offers of mercy, compassion, and love from others, even our enemies and God.
