" Amazing Grace ... "

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like me

I once was lost, but now I'm found

'Twas blind, but now I see

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear

And grace my fears relieved

How precious did that grace appear

The hour I first believed ...

~ John Newton ~ Amazing Grace ~

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Grace ... is it something we deserve or is it a gift?  And does giving grace to other guarantee that they will offer you the same?  Probably not ... but the one thing you will receive is peace of mind because the energy we expend on frustration and anger is a colossal waste of time.

This becomes apparent in various situations ... driving in traffic, dealing with co-workers, strangers we pass on the street, and of course our closets relationships.  People frustrate us because they don’t do what we think they should, say the proper things or just rub us the wrong way. It’s easy to get angry, real easy.

Perhaps believing that part of unlocking our best selves has to do with how we treat others.  It is just so hard at times to extend grace, to recognize that others, ourselves included, are not perfect, will not be perfect.  So for that reason exactly, we need to start to give them a little extra room. 

People need room ... room to account for their imperfection, room that chooses to forgive and forget, room that accounts for the fact that they irritate us but are still worthy of respect, kindness and love.  When people cross our paths, we don’t know where they are coming from ... their background, history, personality or story.  Practicing grace allows us to be merciful or compassionate in nature ... show an act of kindness, courtesy and an exemption. 

It is just as important to give ourselves grace.  Be kind with your words as the power of the tongue can actually bring things into being amazing.  We have the power to build ourselves up or tear ourselves down.  Remembering that everyday we can choose to step down so someone else can step up.  That is, to be kind and merciful towards others. To forgive someone, ourselves and just let go of the past.