What about Hurting
or Offending someone? Should that person let us know that we have
done so?
You bet they should! Without
guessing, how will we know if we have offended them? We are only human and
because of that we are going to hurt and offend people along the paths
of life. However, if we are hurting and offending people purposely or just
don't care if we do, then what kind of a friend are we anyway?
When we feel hurt or offended by something a person says or does, it is
important that we speak up and tell that person how we feel. In most
cases, this person is not aware that they have offended us. When we
let them know that they have offended us, it then gives them the chance to
apologize and to refrain from doing so in the future. It also creates
for that person, a chance to examine any Character Flaws within
them selves that may be causing us to hurt or offend. It is only being
made aware of the fact that we have hurt or offended, that opens the door
to possible change within our selves to become a better person in that
area.
Equally as important, is the act
of forgiveness! Without forgiveness, no doors can be opened and no
change can take place. If you are the offended and you do not forgive
then you automatically become an offender and you carry that burden with
you. The person that originally offended you, (Unintentionally), goes on
feeling bad that he/she accidentally hurt you but there is nothing
more they can do about it. You on the other hand will continue with the
guilt of not forgiving until you seek forgiveness from some other
source down the line. Gets pretty complicated doesn't it?
The easiest and best solution is to forgive as quickly as possible.
Doing so Immediately puts you in the clear, and that temporary obstical is
then cleared from the road and allows you both to continue down the
road together at peace with each other and your surroundings.
IF YOU HURT OR OFFEND SOMEONE, BE
QUICK TO SAY I'M SORRY! IF YOU ARE
HURT OR OFFENDED BY SOMEONE, SAY
SO! |