Politics in the workplace stretch every ethical and moral fence. When someone else does not play by the rules, when every tenant in the ethical rulebook is broken, what should one do in response? In the midst of a hard workday, it is difficult not to believe you are a Roman gladiator; fighting as a slave must without the option of free choice. What is right course, the thing followers of God would do?
My work challenges are not yours, but our problems are probably quite similar. I find them common regardless of my role. I discover most problems relate to people, not activities that need to be completed. There are clearly good days and bad, but the worse come when you sense they are attacking from every corner! Sometimes, the attack is of pure ignorance but the impact is the same as if they had schemed with all the abilities they could muster.
I can confess that my response is often consistent and one with which I am not comfortable. I fight back immediately only if required for staying alive, but I do remember, catalog, and look for opportunities to win on another day. I am clear in my disagreements, and it should come as no surprise when I present an alternative opinion. I see myself as fighting honestly and out in the open.
Am I living in relationship with God through all this? Will I stay in the Presence and follow the Spirit’s lead? Paul’s advice and caution is simple.
“Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath.” (Romans 12.14)
What in the world does this mean? How does one live this out in the real world?
Last night a neighbor unfairly accused Carli of being noisy in the evening. I realize that beyond the immediate fairness issue was a larger question. Do I see this person as a child of God’s? Do my actions affirm that I believe God offers relationship and grace as quickly and completely to the accused as the accuser?
It is always easier when one ignores one’s own failures.
