Love and care for another human being can be expressed through self-limitation. Self-limitation! That almost seems like a foreign concept in these days of self-expression. In a previous post I shared how different cultures have different beliefs. What is reverenced in one culture, can carry negative connotations in another. If our individual expression harms another, will we show compassion by making the necessary adjustments in order to not bring harm? Or will we proceed boldly in our individual expression and disregard our fellow man? You know what they say about Karma. Do we always have to exercise all the things that we are free to do? Or can we restrain in the best interest of another? We are certainly free to express ourselves in many ways but when that expression hurts and harms others, it may be time to think it over.
Romans 14:13-15 really resonates, especially in today’s society. It speaks of showing love for others by not offending them through one’s actions. Sometimes an issue is not worth jeopardizing a relationship, it’s not worth dividing a people, it’s not worth offending another person or culture. When entering the home of certain cultures, it is customary to remove your shoes. Some may be offended by the request (which may actually extend from the fact that they may need a pedicure, but I digress). One can be so focused on “oh, I don’t like my feet,” that they miss the fact the host is not focused on the state of the feet but focused on the customary removal of shoes and the reason behind the custom. In some cultures, the custom is based out of the religion of that culture.
I have visited cultures where it is customary for the women to cover their heads. Now, I have all these loc to cover, yet I do so out of respect. If we can reflect on the parallels in our lives, I believe we can gain a better understanding. There are still some churches today where women are not permitted to wear pants. I know, I know but in addition to self-limitations, we also have free will. One can choose to go or not go to these churches. For me personally, if I choose to go, I am automatically choosing to wear a dress as well so as not to offend. Sometimes the issue in front of us is not worth offending our brother or our sister. Self-limitation, what a wonderful way to show love and respect to each other.
I am Paula G Voice! I am a sagacious independent lifestyle influencer. I am embracing my own journey and sharing experiences along the way. I am challenging dreamers to do the same by breathing life into their deferred dreams and living out the reality! It is never too late to embrace your journey and live your dreams! Visit Paula’s Blog at www.paulagvoice.com for the full journey.
Mindset Question:
How will you reflect self-limitation?
Lesson Learned:
When we exercise our “rights” sometimes, we wind up hurting others.
Wisdom Challenge:
Consider the consequences, pro or con, of an action that you take that may cause harm to others.