To those who say the Our Father prayer, you know this line. The harder line for me is what follows - as we forgive those who trespass against us. I really do think about these words each time I say this praryer - which apparently isn't often enough.
The hardest thing for me, and I'm sure many of you reading this, is to let go of my percieved faults in other. And I have pretty petty things that I need to forgive. And, I may perceive an action as a trespass against me but in reality, it's me that is not being either patient, or tolerant or understanding enough.
I'm pretty stubborn and admit to having a temper. As an adult, I keep thinking I'm getting better at controlling it (and in some ways I really have gotten better) but even just yesterday I lost it. I go somewhere where no one can see at least. I try to deal with it myself but the best way to deal with it is for me to not let it affect me in the first place. I need to be more lenient and patient. More forgiving.
So, I actually need to add a few lines for myself to this prayer - which I think is so beautiful.
And lead me not into false judgement of others. Let me find the path of understanding.
My sister Kristi once told me that you have to practice patience - I think she said a priest once told her that. And it's so true. She practices in her car in traffic, which I myself try to do as well. It's a great place to start in this day and age.
I think that if I go away from the situation and call someone a name under my breath or tense up and do a "Urrgggh" when I get away from the person, it's a way to release some steam. Sure, but it still is not respectful of that other person. And it's all about respect. I don't have to agree with you, but I do need to respect your opinion, your way of working, your choices.
So, I guess I'll add my line above into my thoughts when I say this prayer in the future. I'll let you know how I'm doing...