Being the people-watcher that I am, I’ve seen in the past few days a series of revelations about people I know and thought I knew. I think that once we get accustomed to doing something, being somewhere, or being around other people enough, their identity becomes synonymous with our own. I think it carries over in relationships, in habits, and perhaps even locations. John is known for his crude humor. Jane is known for going out with John. And every time I pass by a so-and-so I remember Susie. It’s an odd marriage of association, and I wonder if it’s wrong to impose it on them.
Being as delicate about the subject as possible, this week I’ve seen people experience heart break, humility, the sting of lies, the comfort of humor, and the loneliness that insults expose. One person in particular finds identity in bringing other people down, so long as she has enough time to smile and say ‘I’m joking, Gosh!’. I sincerely believe it is the only way she knows how to socialize. She keeps people at a distance with harsh words and yet hopes they will stay close enough to stick around. Her friends uncomfortably endure her presence at the expense of their patience. It is a price they choose to pay in order to keep the peace. I am one of those people.
Another person (...actually three other people) was surprised to find herself without a mate. Judging from conversations I had with all four people, the day would never have been so soon. It reminded me of a relationship I had long time ago that eventually came to an end. After being with that girl for so long, it was hard for me to remember who I was before I was ever in that relationship. I had to find myself and find my original identity. I had to change my perspective and realize I had been liberated, and in turn so had my identity. My heart goes out to You.
Lastly, I discovered how layered dishonesty can become. Lies come in threes, they say. This week one person lied to my friends, lied to his own friends, and lied about why he lied to both parties. It was the unholy marriage of distortions and deceptions, hidden under smiles and nods. My heart throttled with anger and yet I was reminded about my duty to my enemies. Love them. It will be a difficult task not to associate this person with their ugly sin. And yet I cringe at the sins I may one day be remembered for. I’m no better than said Liar.
God associates us with Himself. We are, after all, created in His image. Somewhere down the line we became dependent on other people, on ourselves, on our weaknesses. I know God heals us of many things. This week I am reminded of the hope that He can heal us from ourselves.
