Self-Destruction in Slow Motion

I was talking to Olivia on the phone today (remember, she's my oldest daughter that you read about in "Clicking on a Miracle"). She lives in New Hampshire with her husband, Shawn, and their five children.

She quoted something to me that she heard in church yesterday; something that fit into our conversation, but that I "heard" through the eyes and ears of someone who has been through divorce. It struck me forceably, so wanted to share it with you today.

Olivia said, "Selfishness is self-destruction in slow motion."

That's so true!

As I think about putting ourselves first above others, with no thought for what is right or best, it's clear to me that such self-service never results in anything good. Others suffer, others lose their affection and respect for you, and you end up alone and disconnected form everything that has meaning and real purpose.

Selfishness perpetuates a downward spiral that leads to shame, discontent, unhappiness, isolation, depression and misery. Probably a whole lot more that, too, but suffice it to say: selfishness doesn't build, it destroys.

As we face divorce it might seem natural to "look out for #1", put yourself first, and pull out the stops on making sure you get all that you deserve.

But before you do, remember that everything you dish out comes back to you. Instead, take this time in your life to test your faith. Do the kindest and most generous thing and watch, over the ensuing years, at all the blessing that come back to you.

It's not all about "what's in it for me" as you face divorce; it's more about, "how can I get through this difficult situation the way the Lord wants me to?"

Try it, you'll be a better person for it.

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