Step #1: If you accept that the offending person is a bruised person, just trying to either lash out or perhaps, doing the best they can to cope with their unresolved pain, you might then be more capable of changing your perspective. If they are deliberately lashing out – which would really mean that they are a hurt person trying to hurt others, do you really want to be so controlled by them that your response is predicted?
Or, if they are just trying to cope with their pain, unaware they are hurting you, maybe you might feel compassion instead of taking offense? In either case, changing your perspective from victim to objective observer will change your world.
Step #2: I know — easier said than done but based on your changed perspective, this should be easier. If you accept that ALL of your thoughts, feelings and actions or reactions are YOUR choice, this becomes even easier.
The power gained by internalizing this reality is indescribable.
Step #3: Being able to prayer for a person who challenges you – often, does not require sainthood, I promise! It really is possible and strongly advised, if you really want to have this person loose all their power to offend you in the future. Genuinely praying for the very best for someone is an act of love. Acts of love grow our ability to love – both the giving and the receiving of love.
When people annoy or offend us, it’s usually a sign that there is something unhealed in us… we tend to see others as we are, not simply as they are. So I strongly recommend that throughout the process of responding to an offending person, reflect on how you are responding and what it might mean about your own need to heal.
Let your best intentions – laced with love – guide you and you cannot fail!
Wishing you an abundance of peace, love and pure joy,
Julette Millien
~♥~
