I am involved in a lot of organizations and in doing so come in contact with a lot of people — all ages, all faiths, all socioeconomic levels, all political views. It’s a given that disagreements occur on a regular basis and I’m usually there to observe them.
As I’ve said before, I’m not a theologian, nor a professional counselor, but in my years on this earth (adding up as I type), I’ve come to the conclusion that there is a difference between “Being Right” and “Doing the Right Thing.” Let me explain.
Watch some of the political pundits on TV. They will argue their point until someone will tell them they are right, and then they’ll further argue how the other person should say they are right. (If you hear a bit of cynicism here, there is.) This is what I call “being right.”
Then observe those who take a higher road, will admit when they are wrong, work toward reconciling differences, and will sacrifice to achieve the greater good. This is what I call “doing the right thing.”
Why does the person perpetuating the argument demand their way? There’s probably a lot of answers, but ego and self esteem are certainly part of the equation. We humans just can’t stand to admit we are ever wrong. The results are tension, conflict, unresolved issues, monetary loss, stained reputations and, many times, broken relationships.
“Being Right” has damaged governments, organizations, communities, but most importantly families. Now that I know there’s a difference, I’m changing my behavior to one who is considered as one “doing the right thing.”
Will you join me?
Tagged: Christians in culture
