Side by side, parallel positions, in full view of each other
so we can compare. The good and bad, the good and good. Whatever it is two
things placed in a position so we can see and study them. An example that
resonates or jars?
Most likely the latter.
Here are some examples.
Religious beliefs and freedom of religion. Some cancel each
other out. For instance:
“No, you can’t deny women their
basic rights and pretend it’s about your ‘religious freedom’. If you don’t like
birth control, don’t use it. Religious freedom doesn't mean you can force
others to live by your own beliefs.”
Who said that? President Barack Obama. I think he said it
spot on! If you believe something, live your life accordingly; just don’t force
others to live your beliefs. They have the right to see it differently and live
accordingly, too.
The International Olympic Committee has a rule against
political statement in the venue of its sporting competitions or by teams,
individuals and nations participating in the competitions. Then why are anti-gay laws, fines and
punishments allowed in Russia
for the 2014 Winter Games? Russia ,
and Putin, are using the venue for their political statement. If you recall
communism does not recognize religion so anti-gay positions cannot be labeled
religious dicta. Russia
can do and say their political position but no one else can? The Olympics have
always been about peace and getting along with one another at a time of pure
athletic competition. How does this square with the current situation?
Caught this quote on the internet the other day:
“Love
is caring for each other even when you’re angry.”
I tried to learn about the author but couldn't find him/her.
If you know, please share. The simple
statement is powerful. It especially applies among good and deep friends, and
of course family relationships. The latter are more difficult because of the
emotional current running through the relationship. I’m not sure it is
competition, or desire to influence the other, or what. Our anger is often
misplaced. It reflects most likely a perceived difference of opinion and thus
motivation. ‘Why did she say that?’ Or, ‘why did he do that?’ Resentment builds
and then anger. But do we care about
the person still? That is the question.
Here’s another quote from an unknown author:
“A
negative mind produces a negative life!
Stay positive no matter what!”
We all know some negative persons. They are grumpy. They are
worrisome and protective. They are cautious and on alert for someone or
something around them that may produce a negative impact. And of course the negative happens! Like clockwork. It is as though they produced
the outcome because they attracted it.
The opposite is true as well: a positive attitude attracts
positive outcomes. If you think you can make the basket from the 3-point zone
if you can imagine making the score! Athletes train by positive imaging of
themselves functioning in perfect form to compete for the win! Sales personnel
imagine winning the big sale and making it happen. The person with the positive
attitude in the room attracts more friends in the group. We see this happen over and over again.
Yet negative attitudes persist in many people. Best they
follow this advice:
“Life
is like a camera…
Focus
on what’s important,
Capture
the good times,
Develop
from the negatives,
And if things don’t work out,
Take another shot.”
~Anonymous
Yesterday was the last court date for our home’s
foreclosure. It makes us sad. But another home beckons. A new chapter of life
entreats us to begin anew.
Yesterday I applied for a loan to purchase a double-wide
manufactured home. We were denied. A cold feeling of defeat enveloped us. But
another lender or a positive outlook with the first lender on re-applying
invites a better outcome. The battle is not over.
Other options exist. Each must be considered. Carefully and
positively. Nothing is guaranteed. We bring our hopes and dreams to life each
day. In turn they will have the chance to succeed. Now there’s a juxtaposition!
August 15, 2013
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