Control

If people can’t control their own emotions, then they have to start trying to control other people’s behavior.  That is a very profound truth (unfortunately, not original to me) regarding political correctness in particular and whining in general.  We convince ourselves that the problem is “out there” and  therefore someone else’s fault, someone else’s responsibility.  In truth, though, the problem — at least, the one relevant to the current circumstance — is “in here.”  Our own personal weaknesses, our own personal insecurities, our own personal failures.

Of course, no one disputes the notion that there is fault to be found “out there.”  This is Satan’s world, after all.  There is plenty of fault to be found everywhere you look — even in the people of God, who have their own failings.  But you can’t fix that.  No one can.  So there’s no point in obsessing over it.  There’s certainly no point in whining about it.

Your community may not be “supportive” (whatever that means) with regard to your political viewpoints, or your child’s food allergy, or even moral issues such as your aversion to disgusting language or lewd behavior.  That’s too bad.  Get over it.  If you want to devote yourself to educating the public, go right ahead.  But if the public does not fall in line immediately, that does not excuse you from your call to peace (Philippians 4:7).

Control what you can — your own thoughts and behaviors.  Quit trying to control what you cannot — the thoughts and behaviors of others.  I guarantee, you will sleep better, smile more, and bear fewer grudges.  Thank me later.