You all probably know how much I admire and love the words of Elder Maxwell. Look at this gem I read today from his book Whom the Lord Loveth-
Life's recurring challenges include the minor vexations, too. One is developing genuine compassion for those who are awash with self-pity. Better for these to receive our rescuing empathy than to be left to swim in their own self-pity.
Another is displaying greater patience with the chronically impatient, especially when our own impatience is clearly not conquered in a day.
Learning to love those we don't like is an even more demanding peak to be climbed.
Those difficult to love - and we may ourselves be such at times - can make giving up seem attractive, or at least bring a slackening and a relapse in our relationships. No wonder resilience matters so much. Trying again may bring the long-sought breakthrough, which is what long-suffering is all about.
There is no footnote to the second commandment indicating exemptions are available in meeting such vexations.
Words I needed to contemplate. Thank you Elder Maxwell.
3 comments :
The other day I was reading a quote by President Hinckley and found myself thinking, I miss him. You feel the same about Elder Maxwell. Very good words mom.
I especially like the one about self pity. I have a hard time showing empathy over and over again to the same person. I like how he said it is better for those to receive our rescuing empathy.
Thanks Momma!
Thanks for sharing Mom, very inspiring words! I notice he never says anything about what anyone may or may not deserve to feel, its unconditional. Just show genuine empathy to all. That can sure be hard to do sometimes.
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