We all have our "buttons"... those sensitive spots that when they are poked or prodded evoke a response in us that causes us to snap just a little bit. That button might be pushed during the day while we're at work, and that evening we find ourselves still "snappy"... Often, the phrase or action that triggers our response and "pushes our button" is done with no malicious intent. But for whatever reason, to nobody's benefit, we react. What we have just allowed to occur is a robbery of our well-being. So how do we stop it? First, recognize that we react so strongly because we feel attacked. So step back and consider if you're really being attacked or not. If not, seek to understand what the person is trying to communicate and walk in their shoes for a bit. Second, if they are attacking you, determine what they are attacking-- is it something substantial like a belief, an action, something said? Or is it something frivilous and based on ignorance (the color of your hair, the fact that you're a Steelers fan, or that you like to watch reality tv)? If the latter, don't surrender your well-being and emotion to the fool. Let the fool make noise, but don't make noise back. They just want commotion. Be gentle in spirit, and smile and change the subject.
Readings: Ezekiel 12:1-14:11; Hebrews 7:1-17; Psalm 105:37-45; Proverbs 27:3
