If you've been hurt by a trusted person in your life, you know how confusing it can be. I've learned the hard way, I cannot always count on others to respect my peace, even if I show respect for theirs.
Being a good person doesn't mean that others will be good to you; in fact, being good often draws negativity toward you, like mosquito to light: to illuminate the darkness which pains them. Much like the best person to give an urgent task is a busy one, many share darkness with an illuminated spirit; whose nature will brightly cast upon the shadow, and make light of the opportunity within.
But when someone's pain so covets the elation in your heart that distortion compels them to take it from you, SHINE ON - SHINE MORE. Light cannot be stolen, only extinguished. Good cannot be taken, only done. You cannot combat darkness by casting wider shade, but only by growing brighter!
I fail at this often, in particular when my family is attacked, when my children's welfare is threatened, when their innocent lives collide with the darkness of those who mean ill will. My base impulse is to walk into the shadow and crush the malice. But I know what harm I visit upon my own spirit by walking down those dark alleys again.
When someone blames you for their problems, when they believe they're justified in hurting you, when they feel entitled to the good that you're seeking to bring others' lives, keep magnanimity. As the Dalai Lama said, "When you think everything is someone else's fault, [when you feel they ought to be attacked, and when you feel you deserve the good they do], you suffer a lot." Blame, self-righteousness and entitlement point the three fingers of suffering. They endure enough agony without facing your wrath; which will only challenge your own peace.
Fighting them serves no purpose; and shuts down your own light as you step into the darkness. You only have control of yourself and how you choose to be as a person. As for others, accept their attacks into your enlightened heart, or walk away brightly to shine on others.
"Have sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay harm for harm; bless others and you be blessed. If you love life and are living good days, keep your lips from speaking ill will; turn away from harm and do good; and keep your peace.” [Peter 3:8-12]
Very Respectfully,
Scott Sonnon
