PRACTICE: Think of some things you know to be true, beneficial and would make you a healthier person – are they activated in your life? Maya Angelou says, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” My interpretation of the “first time” – when you see someone or something clearly …believe. I wished I lived out this quote routinely in my relationships and life generally. The author /poet is pushing us to receive the message communicated and to act accordingly (activate). What often happens with knowledge is interesting if you think about it. If it supports our current agenda, makes us feel good about who and where we are and what we are doing, it is all good. On the flip side of that coin, if the message received points to struggle and discomfort, we are likely to choose to put it on the shelf with words like, “I hope it’s not true or I hope it will change or I know- but what am I to do?, it’s just so hard or I will get around to it.”
Acupuncture is my most recent illustration. My husband is seeing an acupuncturist and getting good improvements in some chronic health challenges. I believe acupuncture works. But when he suggested a trial for me and the provider offered a complimentary session, I declined. I know it works but I also know being stuck with multiple needles is not exactly how I want to spend an hour. Message received and not activating.
When it comes to people, relationships and situations, acting on the knowledge does not necessarily mean the removal of the person or situation. It can mean that, but it can also mean that I change. I have a friend that I meet regularly for a meal. About a year ago, I saw clearly that our meeting to catch up with each other really meant catching up with what was happening in her universe. I didn’t discard my friend (she has shown me who she is, and I believe it). I adjusted my expectations of mutual sharing. I enjoy our time together much more now.
If one knows but takes no steps to turn the knowledge into action, the benefit of the knowledge is wasted. I guess I see acupuncture in my future.
James 1:22- NIV - “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. PONDER THIS THOUGHT – Knowledge is power. Knowledge without action is powerless.
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