Taking it Down a Notch

"Nothing appeases an enraged elephant so much as the sight of a little lamb."

St. Francis de Sales

Can we bring peace? In a nation where there is so much animosity and hatred, peace is definitely needed. Jesus even told us "blessed are the peacemakers". Yet, in our land today, it seems everyone likes to get angry. Of course we all know that hate breeds hate, but lately those who speak the most about "hate" are those who are filled with hatred.

The quote from St. Francis de Sales points out an important lesson that we each need to learn. He is saying to us that a gentle response to an angry person can break down the anger and bring peace. Will it happen every time? No, of course not. Yet, that should not be our standard as to whether we will do it or not. Jesus tried many times to correct people (sometimes gently, sometimes harshly), but they did not always respond rightly.

The next time that you are in a situation where you can see the tempers flaring (even if it is your own), then consider the quote above. Ask yourself at that time, "how can I be the little lamb right now?" I have seen it myself, where someone is looking for an excuse to blow their top, and then another person brings peace to the situation, and everything changes. Whether it is a co-worker, a boss, a neighbor, or a relative, let us always be the first ones to behave like "little lambs" and bring peace and truth to a dying world.