Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Feb 12 Fighting

Living in peace is not the same as being passive. At times we choose not to fight, opting instead for peace. This is not because we are weak and powerless. We may walk away from a fight because the cost is too high, or because the prize is too small. We may decide that the battle is not worth our energy. We may not want to make the other into an enemy. Or we may prefer a situation where neither side loses.
This is an important point, and the cause of much misunderstanding. Strong, powerful people may walk away from a fight when that is the wiser course of action. They walk away because they choose to do so, not because they are weak.
Those who are strong do not have to prove their strength to anyone.

1 comment:

Jon Perry said...

My dad once told me the most important thing his dad taught him was that pride is the hardest thing to swollow, but necessary to live life in harmony with others. My grandfather died a wealthy and respected man. His funeral was attended by hundreds of people who praised him for being an honest, hard working individual.

In contrast, my mothers father was an army veteran who believed pride was the most important thing a man can have. He fought battles his whole life whenever his pride was at stake. He was a very interesting man who told great stories. I loved him very much. Regardless pride was at the center of his life. When he passed away, he was loved by his wife and family but had very few friends beyond that. During his life he never experienced the financial success my dad's father achieved nor garnished the same respect from his peers.

I loved both of them very much but know that my father's dad's wisdom about pride was one of his greatest assets.