Pulling my small foot from my big mouth

I like to talk... and most of the time that's a good thing. But when it isn't it stinks! And even worse is when you hurt someone's feelings because your mind isn't fast enough to shut your mouth down before you lash out a spew of uncaring, insensitive remarks faster than a volcano erupts. Ugh...

"Be gentle with yourself and others... for we are the dwelling place of the Most High."

I always loved hearing my friend Phil Purser share this message at the end of church services when he was my priest. It's a wonderful reminder that we are called to love one another and that taking care of each other is really a way to glorify God.

I keep this note on my phone so I can look at it when I need to pull myself up from getting knocked down by someone I care about. Today I am looking at it because I was the person who delivered the punch, selfishly worrying more about MY feelings than the ones being shared with me by my friend.

I have apologized profusely, and forgiveness has been granted. It's not the first dust up, nor will it be the last. But that's the beauty of God's grace - that sins are forgiven if we just ask. And it's important to remember that no matter the injury, His mercy will bring us back into communion with those we care about.

I am not perfect, and neither is my friend. But through grace and mercy we will continue on... for a very long time I hope!