THIS:
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"Scorn, bitterness, scoffing, these are no weapons. Belittling others, not seeing Christ in them -- this too is to inflict wounds -- is to do to Christ what we are doing to the least around us. This is an expression of fear -- fear of being laughed at and scorned in turn. If we scorn others we will not win them. There is no love in scorn." - August 13, 1951 - The Duty of Delight: The Diaries of Dorothy Day
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I'm sorry if I've snapped at times and said unkind words while trying to convey these things. I wreck everything on my own. I have to realize I cannot control what other people think and say and feel.
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Another entry from Dorothy Day I found applicable to myself...
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"I have a hard enough job to curb the anger in my own heart which I sometimes even wake up with, go to sleep with, -- a giant to strive with, an ugliness, a sorrow to me -- a mighty struggle to love. As long as there is any resentment, bitterness, lack of love in my own heart I am powerless. God must help me." - June 16, 1951
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Art: Christ in the Breadline, Ade Bethune
These are both excellent reflections. Thank you for sharing them.
ReplyDeleteThanks[again] for your post. Because of several of your posts I am stronger in my faith but so much more accepting of others and sometimes even of myself. We do live After the Fall in case anyone forgets that! All of creation is 'wounded', groaning, striving for the final revelation in Heaven of the sons of God. Those at the 'Foot' of the Cross, in humility, seen as Christ sees them, are in good company. We are always being re-formed by the Loving Potter in His Heart. Peace.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Terry.
ReplyDeleteTo be fair, I never see much venom coming from you, especially in comparison to others. But I know that Christ won't judge our charity in comparison to TIA, so it's not easy.
You've taught me a lot, my friend.
That's right Terry, words hurt and if you evah try to read me again by calling me the name of your favorite joy toy, you'll be getting a great view of the Twin Cities out your ass. Just so we're clear. Now go take on the day.
ReplyDeleteMieux
Seriously, what so amazes me by Mieux's comment is that whoever Miuex is, Mieux must be known on the blog-net or by other readers and therefore Mieux does not want to be identified as a mean-spirited, filthy minded commenter taking gay jabs at me or my readers, insulting me or my work, as well as my efforts to do good.
ReplyDeleteI've made my mistakes online and in person and have exhibited tasteless humor at times, but I publicly acknowledge my shortcomings.
I do not go around making anonymous comments on other people's blogs either - if I call someone out - politely or not - I at least sign my name. And if I excuse myself by saying I was kidding - well, that is my bad - but I signed my name.
And now I know who Miuex is.
ReplyDeleteI was right the first time.
I am amazed at how anyone calling themselves Christian can think it's okay to hide behind anonymous names in order to attack others, often reproaching them for their spiritual shortcomings. What are people thinking?
ReplyDeleteWhat's this guy's deal, Terry? This the same guy who didn't like your paintings and you not selling them or something? lol
ReplyDeleteTerry, Mieux is the devil's affirmation that you are doing something right. We should all pray for Mieux/ Anonymous' release from the evil one's grip. Very sad.
ReplyDeleteI suppose it is payback time for me - if I dish it out I have to learn how to take it. It's all good.
ReplyDeleteTerry, Father said that painting icons brings us closer to heaven.
ReplyDelete