Peace Or Right

As we navigate the holiday season and move towards the new year we often do some inner reflection. As I age gracefully, being at peace has become so much more important to me than being right. I guard my space where ever I go -I choose to operate in the spirit of peace. The bible never said ‘blessed are those who are always right’. It does say ‘blessed are the peacemakers’. I have learned how to take the lower ground ; to agree to disagree. To choose my battles wisely and not to be combative to prove a point. I found myself having to work on that this past year. My goal is to continue on the same trajectory this coming year. I don’t always have to be right, not at the expense of peace in my home and my relationships.

This was not always true – especially in my twenties. This is a picture of me then; very upset after arguing with my boyfriend. I was always right, quite self-righteous, and would never apologize. He hated when I was upset and would always pursue me to ‘make things right’. Time and experience has taught me much over the years. The more mature person is not the one who’s always right; it’s the one who seeks peace and pursues it. Be the one who refuses to cultivate or encourage discord and contention in your space.

As an added note, this is not referring to moral rightness or acts of sin that dishonor God or break the law. We always strive to do the right thing in the eyes of God and the law. I’m referring to differences of opinion or viewing things from a different perspective. Times when we are bent on winning an argument – getting one over at all cost.

Here’s the conclusion of the whole matter- we can be right and alone tonight. Right and in the doghouse; right and miserable. Right and no one wants to be in our presence. Right and miss the moments that truly matter with the ones who truly matter. As we move into the new year, let’s consider this in light of eternity or even the next few hours. Does it really matter what we are trying prove? Would I rather be right or have peace? I choose peace. How about you?

Avoid evil and do good. Seek peace and pursue it.

Psalm 34: 14