June 1, 2007

Six months ago a colleague let me down. I sat down and typed out my frustrations to him. I used good communication skills and specifically identified what had and had not been done in the situation and how I had been adversely affected.

While getting my feelings down in writing was cathartic, it didn’t solve anything. Why? I never sent the letter. Why? Because my colleague was not in a position to be able to resolve any of my concerns. Yes, I was hurt. And yes, I was angry. But after much prayer and anguish, it appeared that these were my issues not his.

This past week I attended my colleague’s funeral and considered the blessing he had been to those around him. I also found my letter to him and was thankful it remained unsent on my computer. Perspective is such a blessing.

I still believe the situation six months ago could have been handled differently with much better outcome. However, in the big picture of life, I want to be able to differentiate between my feelings about the issues and the solutions to issues. I want my contributions to move us forward, not to just vent my occasional frustrations.

“Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.” Proverbs 12:18

Rejoicing in hope,
Pastor Steve