Not everyone will receive what we have to offer. And this is okay. While we don’t want to shortchange our efforts, there comes a point when we must shake the dust off our feet and move on.
Occasionally, we have a perspective we want to share with others. And we truly believe that if they could just see things from our point of view it would change their life for the better.
We then put in great efforts to convert them to our way of thinking.
And, generally speaking, this is a good thing and part of how we bring more life and goodness into the world.
But our hearts are exposed in how they respond to our efforts.
If they eventually come around to our way of thinking then we’ve gained a friend and ally on the issue.
But we might be tempted to try harder if they refuse to see things as we do.
And at this point we must consider how much our own pride is motivating our efforts. To continue pushing an issue when it’s clear the other has made up his mind is likely more about our ego than advancing love.
Christ reminds us there comes a time to shake the dust off and let people own the choices they’ve made.
This does not diminish the importance of the issue or require us to close our hearts toward the other person.
But it does remind us love is free and that hearts are not won by bulling or demanding someone see things from our point of view – regardless of how right we are on the issue.
We’re prone to burning bridges and creating a greater divide when we refuse to accept another’s freedom to choose.
Patiently endure. And when it’s time, wisely shake the dust off and move on. This allows you to maintain your sanity and keep the door open for future opportunities.
Photo by Iqbal Hussain Topu on Unsplash
