REMINDERS

I loved Mom's post and true heroism. Several years ago I was going through an extremely difficult time and I was angry and frustrated. I did not understand why I had to experience so much pain and betrayal and I wanted to lash out and punish those who had offended me so deeply.

I had confided in Mom and she e-mailed me the following poem by Emily Dickinson

To fight aloud, is very brave,

But gallanter, I know

Who charge within the bosom

The Cavalry of Woe.

Who win, and nations do not see,

Who fall, and none observe.

Whose dying eyes, no Country

Regards with patriot love.

We trust in plumed procession

For such, the Angels go,

Rank after Rank, with even feet,

And Uniforms of Snow.

She then shared with me the following scripture:

"Fear not, for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha." - 2 Kings 6:16-17

She then stated:

Consider: The "weapons used by the "Cavalry of Woe" can fill us with anger or bring a loss of faith, and thus, lead to the death of the Spirit. The only "weapons" that work in an attack against the "Cavalry of Woe" are weapons of life: faith, hope, love, forgiveness, and repentance. Trust in "plumed procession" -- "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding, In all they ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct they paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil." (Prov. 3:5-7)

Prov. 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

I have all of this posted in my cubicle at work and have often turned to it when I begin to feel the despair and sadness that often occurs during this time of tumult. I find peace and solice in these reminders. I have learned that my own soft answers to personal attacks from others turns my wrath away. Sometimes it softens the offender - not always. I also know that if I have taken offense and returned equal assault my spirit is still tormented with anger and I am not better for the experience.

Mom also said to me: "Did you ever think that perhaps you should thank (your assaulters - names removed because they have been forgiven). Think about it."