A book I once read (and reread) taught me the value of being
transparent (nonresistant) versus being opaque (resistant). It opened me to the
reason why we are told in the Sermon on the Mount to agree with our
adversaries quickly, that if someone slaps us upside the head, to turn the
other cheek, etc.
I believe the reason is that when I disrespect another
by thought, word or attitude, the one I disrespect becomes opaque
(resistant), which causes that which I sent out to bounce right back to me…and
I, feeling attacked, become opaque causing the ugly to bounce back, etc., etc., etc.
My job is to remain nonresistant (transparent), i.e., agree
with my adversary quickly/turn the other cheek, to that which feels like an
unprovoked attack. It helps when I immediately remind myself that this
originated with me and let it flow through and away from me…and I must admit
that this is where my ego-centered fear fights for its life.
In general, I find it necessary for my peace of mind to look
inside until I find where and what I sent out. That usually sends me to another
book I read that tells me when someone steps on my toes, seemingly without
provocation, for sure I've made a decision based on self that later placed me
in a position to be hurt.
That helps keep my thoughts directed toward me, the cause of
all my problems, rather than toward you, the excuse for all my problems.
Thank You.
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