They focus on the wrong issues.
They create illogical arguments. They stretch the truth and spin the story. They yell and treat others disrespectfully.
Generally, they do all sorts of stuff that drives us nuts. And we spend a ton of time complaining about it.
We write articles and make speeches. We protest. We fill our Facebook timelines with cynical, logical complaints about why they are doing it wrong.
And nothing changes.
Nothing changes because they don’t read our articles or follow our Facebook posts. They mostly don’t care what we think because they believe we’re doing it wrong.
So they stand on one side of the street and we stand on the other.
And nothing changes.
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I suppose we could continue complaining to us about why they are on the wrong side of the street. Might make us feel better, but only makes the street wider.
Jesus offered ways to make the street a bit easier to cross.
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We may choose to attract our own community and form our own platform. On this path we focus on positive steps toward the outcomes we care about rather than fussing about the stuff they do.
Make the circle stand for something that matters. Make it the sort of place people want to be. Offer everyone who shows up an opportunity to use their gifts.
Perhaps they will cross the street. If they want in, welcome them with open arms. But don’t waste your energy complaining about and condemning what they do.
Focus on those who choose to step into the circle.
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We may choose to engage. This path involves sacrifice, listening, stepping into the others’ story even when they refuse to step into ours. It’s the long path, the one that demands love in the face of rejection. This path values people more than actions or results.
This path means taking a risk and crossing the street. It means going first, being vulnerable, perhaps being perceived as weak or foolish. Following this path requires courage. There’s no guarantee you’ll succeed.
They may not welcome you. They may abuse your trust.
But someone’s gotta cross the street first, right?
Have you focused too much on what they do? How can you use your energy more productively?
Please leave a comment here.
