“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Colossians 3:12 

Are you feeling weary of all the division in our world? A war in Ukraine, now one in Israel, congress can’t elect a speak of the house, our United Methodist Church is in turmoil, political commercials are in attack mode, and on it goes. I am finding people quick to react defensively right now. I feel on edge myself. I suppose it’s no wonder. 

When my girls were little, they would often display their tiredness or hunger or hurt. They would act out these feelings in short tempers, cries, or sour moods. When Susan would see this her first question to the girls was always, “What’s wrong?” I never appreciated the wisdom of the question at the time, but it helps the other person to assume their bad behavior isn’t normal, it’s being caused by something, so let’s get to the real problem. 

There’s an old expression for dealing with people who act out: EGR which stands for Extra Grace Required. I feel we are in an EGR period. We all need extra grace, which is probably why so many have short fuses. We are desperate for others to treat us kindly, and when enough people who are running on empty in their kindness tanks get together the result isn’t usually...kind. 

This is a time when we need to be the peace we seek; to show the kindness we crave; to offer the understanding we need. Let’s just try this as a one-day experiment. Today, I invite you to make it a point to initiate kindness to everyone you encounter. Don’t wait for them to do something kindly. Strike first. Speak a complimentary word. Offer a praise. Contribute gratitude. If it seems to work, try it again tomorrow. See what changes in others and you. 

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