With Google being our active and semi-altruistic friend, the individual info search has become quite the convenient, domestic activity. Hence, on a witty whim earlier in the week, we asked, “What are people prone to?”
The answers span the spectrum of creativity, if I do say so myself…
Depression… coronavirus… certain health conditions.. each was shared via take #1.
A more involved search produced the concepts of being prone to accidents, addiction and anxiety. Such sent my pondering brain in a different direction — one perhaps more tailored toward an Intramuralist focus — especially when I was asked by a friend recently, “Why aren’t you more prone to insult?”
For communicative clarity (which we believe is one of current culture’s unfortunate, increasing scarcities), let’s provide some basic definitions.
First, what does it mean to be prone?
prone (adj.) – likely to do something
Second…
insult (v.) – to speak to or treat with disrespect or scornful abuse
It’s amazing how frequently insults flow. We find ourselves in these insulated, likeminded huddles, where we justify the disrespect and scorn. It’s like we think it’s ok there. I recently saw someone throw even public, scornful shade at one who had recently died. They pointed out all the perceived, massive wrongdoing of the deceased and then suggested that in heaven, if there, Jesus would be gently but demonstrably pointing out all the ways the man had erred in his judgment. I didn’t have the heart to say that such is likely to be true for all who are blessed to enter those pearly gates. But alas, we stand amazed.
Ah, let’s offer one more definition. That of “amazed.” Note that “amazed” is a neutral adjective; it is not aligned with good nor bad. It simply means “causing great surprise or wonder; astonishing.” Yes, it’s amazing how frequently insults seems to flow.
So the question was why is the Intramuralist not likely to engage in such verbal abuse. Allow me first a very important distinction. Unfortunately, I have had moments in which I contributed to said negative discussion. I have had times where I joined in the fray. I have said things that were rude and disrespectful. And yes, absolutely, I have had multiple moments that I regret. I most likely will have some more.
Yet with the experience gained through seasons of life — as a constant student, continuous learner, and one who desires to grow in what is good and right and true — there is clear recognition that none of us are perfect. Each of us often falls prey to lesser, disrespectful things.
The goal is to justify the lesser less.
I honestly, simply believe that no one is deserving of my disrespect.
And in those moments, where I have felt so emboldened in justifying that scorn or disrespect, I am typically really, really, really focused on the errors in another…
And simultaneously really, really, really ignoring the imperfections in me.
That, my friends, is amazing.
Respectfully… indeed…
AR