Luke 10:25-37
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. -Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)
My granddaughter, Gaby, was studying for her driving test, though she was ambivalent about it. I kept encouraging her to consider the fact that she would soon begin classes at university and be starting a new job. Being able to drive would be to her advantage. She finally decided to take the test.
Immediately upon arriving at the station, the staff person told Gaby brusquely he did not have time to administer the test that day and for her to return another time. Undaunted, my granddaughter replied without annoyance that it was quite necessary for her to get the license on that day for official identification purposes. Still a bit surly, he finally acquiesced.
When she finished the test, he announced in his same manner, “OK, you passed.” As she was leaving, she turned to him and said, “Have a great day.” He made no comment and remained silent as she left. When my granddaughter told me about her experience, I commented that she should have taken a firmer tone in her interaction with that person. But she responded, “No, Papi, a person with an unpleasant attitude should be treated with common courtesy and a kinder attitude.” The words of Proverbs 15 came to mind as I reflected on Gaby’s experience and, more importantly, how she handled it. What a wise lesson she taught me!
Prayer: O Lord, may our words be acceptable to you and our actions be true to your commandment to love one another. Amen.
Thought for the day: The Lord rejoices in my kind words and actions toward others.
Edward Rivera Santiago (Puerto Rico)
