Wow, seeing old friends is really refreshing. I got to see some high school friends tonight that I haven't seen in a while. It's interesting to see how a few months away from home in a different atmosphere with different people can change your perspective on things. Some of my friends go to small colleges and some go to large universities, yet we were still all able to come together and act as if it were the "old times" again.
I know, for me especially, I went to a small private Christian school for 13 years of my life. I never thought I would be going to a public university, yet it happened. I didn't realize how many different types of people there are. So many have different views on everything. Religion and beliefs, morals, teaching styles...everything! I guess it just took me by surprise since I had been in this little bubble my whole life, not truly experiencing all that there is outside of Christianity. It's not to say that I regretted this time of being in a bubble-like atmosphere, because I strongly believe it is what made me who I am today, because I was able to grow in a "safe" environment. But I do wish that I had been able to have more opportunities in that "safe" environment to learn how to deal with those who don't necessarily believe the same way I do. Of course, then that brings me to the question...How do you deal with those people?
In some cases I've learned it's easier to keep your opinions to yourself, for instance, when dealing with an outspoken person. In other cases, I've learned how to express myself without seeming too pushy. Often times, I feel as if Christianity is a religion that is forced on other people in the wrong way. For instance, the street evangelists, yelling at all the onlookers that they are going to hell unless they accept Jesus Christ and give up their evil ways. I'm sure the person screaming had their heart in the right place, however, that's not how anyone wants to be treated.
All this to say, when I have lovely chats with my old friends at Starbucks about how they've been able to share and grow in their faith, I realize often times that each one of us have different ways in which we grow. Hence, I've been challenged in new ways by being reunited with old friends.
How will you change a life today?
1 comment:
"I'm sure the person screaming had their heart in the right place, however, that's not how anyone wants to be treated. "
First of all, props on getting the blog! I am so excited that I get to keep tabs on you!
I hate street preachers, I really do, and I know that's wrong but I do. I guess their hearts are in the right place, but they completely misunderstand the gospel. But I guess that should be sad more than anything.
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