Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Being Like-Minded

"Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation."

--Romans 12:16

No matter our social status we often desire a circle of greater influence and recognition. But where there is the greatest need there is greater opportunity. This association brings fulfillment on many levels and this wisdom supersedes our daily maneuvering.

6 comments:

Big Mark 243 said...

Why do people tend to seek out and make their association with the haughty and those who are levels above? And why is it people who seem to desplay a lack of knowledge speak as though they are certain of major things?

Jus' askin' ...

Judith Ellis said...

Mark - I think it has to do with our desire for wealth and recognition. It is instinctual to provide for ourselves and to desire to be loved. We then do what we think will sustain our desired lifestyles and bring happiness. Often times we can do with much less and it is often the case that the love we are in search of does not bring happiness. Many times we don't know what love is. We are also trained in subtle ways to despise the poor and it is this disassociation that we often seek when we mind high things. "We are not like those," we seem to say. Regarding the lack of knowledge, we are all guilty of this. But humility matters most here.

Opaque said...

I remember telling something similar to my 5 year old sister (I mean, when she was 5 at the time). She has this innocent habit to talk in English to the laborers in India. She knew their language, but still preferred talking in English. But, then I lectured her (gulp), and she now knows how to behave appropriately with appropriate people.

I am not even sure whether my response is related to the post Aunt. Still, it made me recall the incident. So, I thought I share it here.

Aunt, if you have the time, do read my latest lyrics. I've posted two this time. I would love to read your opinion.

Judith Ellis said...

What a good brother you are, dear nephew, and I know that your sister is now entering medical school, isn't it? You can be proud for being such a good big brother. As you know, I have quite a few myself. :-) I will get over to your blog for sure.

septembermom said...

I feel more truly human when I search out my sister or brother in need. I remember working for attorneys at a powerful law firm in NYC. I was actually reprimanded for treating the mailroom workers with respect. My boss wanted me to demean them into getting what we needed. I just don't operate that way.

Judith Ellis said...

Ah, that sounds like you, Kelly. Thank you for the story and your strength. It's inspiring.