I was recently invited to visit the parents of a close friend and was warned that the father liked to engage in political argument. During the visit, an opportunity arose for him to comment on politics and he seized it. I smiled and sipped my coffee. He segued to another political issue, and I smiled again as I munched on cheese and crackers. The conversation then turned calmly to upcoming travel plans and the visit went beautifully.
I have noticed that people are more agitated than usual about the upcoming presidential election. Each side harbors intense dislike for the candidates of the other side and the media fuels the fire.
Although I grew up in a very political family, I have learned to avoid heated political discussions as they are uncomfortable, non-productive, and can even ruin friendships.
In telling a friend about it later, I explained that I didn’t “take the bait” of engaging in a political discussion that could become uncomfortable.
I also pointed out that whoever gets elected, all will not be lost. People do not need to threaten to leave the country. Sanity will prevail. Perhaps, as healers, we can help people remain calm on this issue. This friend pointed out two additional thoughts which can help us retain a right perspective and bring healing to those who are concerned.
First, as Mary Bkaer Eddy explains in her autobiography, we can care as Jesus did. We are told that he ministered to the spiritual needs “of all who placed themselves under his care, always leading them into the divine order, under the sway of his own perfect understanding. His power over others was spiritual, not corporeal.” *
Secondly, she encouraged, “It is safe to leave with God the government of man. He appoints and He anoints His Truth-bearers, and God is their sure defense and refuge.” **
Finally, we can also turn to our wise Christian Science pamphlet, “God Governs”.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer
*Reteospection and Introspection, by Mary Baker Eddy p. 91
**ibid., p. 90
Very good article as we move into this very political period!
I have to comment that when Jennifer gave me her very calm perspective, I settled down in thought and was reminded to trust the process that has been eatablished for this cointry by the wisdom of our prayerful Founding Fathers. It is in place regardless of the current rhetoric.
Rhetoric is defined in one online disctionary as “1. The undue use of exageration or display. 2. Speaking or writing that’s intended to persuade.” Most positively, it means “The art of speaking or writing effectively.” Let’s look for that.
Let’s do what we can to bring reason and grace to the process, and not become distressed or distorted.
Intelligence, wisdom, right thinking and acting will keep us reasoned and safe. And make these times times of our sincere prayer for righteous government. Loving all!