TOO LITTLE INFORMATION MAKES US INSENSITIVE

Some months ago, a colleague posted something on our team chat that I was very critical of because I thought it inappropriate. I even suggested that she deleted it. There is no doubt this offended her. At first, I struggled with why.  However, upon realizing her deep hurt, I apologized and suggested we talk it through, and it was then I realized that she was responding from a place of hurt and a painful experience.

How many times are we quick to judge others without taking the time to investigate their point of reference? I learned a very important lesson that day. I was so absorbed with what others would think instead of focusing on the message she was trying to convey. I learned the importance of focusing my attention on the words of the speaker instead of the audience’s response. What matters most is another human being who is trying to put themselves out there and say, hey I’ve struggled, and I am still struggling, but I am trying to be hopeful. Don’t judge me, just respond with empathy and love.

People who are overwhelmed with emotions are forbidden to express themselves freely because it is considered too much information (TMI). Hence, we allow them to dry clean only instead of washing their laundry and drying, which takes more time.  Some of us are very selfish, hence the reason we have so many problems in our society today; no one talks or listens. We cannot listen to someone hurting without it changing our hearts and keeping them soft and receptive. Instead, we have traded our humanity for callousness.

Recently, I was on a flight when I overheard another passenger having a conversation with a relative.  It was obvious this person adored this older sibling.  However, he just wanted a quick hi and bye.  She pleaded with him to just listen because she was depressed and he refused, stating that he was a musician and not a counselor.  I could hear the disappointment in her voice.  He could have used the music to minister to that need and fill that place in her heart before it became a tear. However, he didn’t have the time to listen, and dismissed her.

 Music is a great way to calm a soul that is in distress. We see in the Bible where David played for Saul when the evil spirit visited him, and it drove the spirit away (1 Samuel 16:14-23). When we dismiss others , instead of taking the time to care, it can often lead to feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, neglect, and depression. Family, friends, and the church community are very important during these times. Let us purpose in our hearts to help one person today by sharing God’s love!