When do you want your retribution?

As we grow from childhood, there is an almost certain given in our lives . . . the times we have to make up for a wrong done someone. Unless we approached sainthood at a very early age, there isn’t a person among us who is completely faultless in our dealings with others.

Children like to squabble among themselves and sometimes feelings are hurt or tender egos bruised. However, the arguments that were uppermost at one recess are easily forgiven by the next playtime. Hearts are soothed with a brusque ‘sorry’ or a share in a candy bar. The circumstances are not usually serious but everyone feels better when the disagreement are resolved by word or action.

Growing up encompasses exposure to more and different groups of people. We work hard to either fit in or co-exist peacefully. Problems occur and as mature adults we try to cope with them as they happen, being forgiving or offering forgiveness as needed. In a perfect world, our straying from the accepted social path would be minimal and making up for transgressions would be simple. If we took something, we would pay it back. If we hurt someone’s feelings, we would be sincere in our apologies. If we caused material damage, we would offer retribution before it was exacted from us.

We don’t live in a perfect world. As Christians we have to care as much for our fellow human beings as we do for our own welfare. Most people do try to make up for words or actions that cause pain to another. People do not, however, realize that words can reach a point of no return. Once words leave your mouth, they are independent of your control and the public has access to them as well as their own interpretation. Think about a single Dandelion. One good puff of air will send every one of its fluffy seeds flying. Try getting them back. And each seed will land somewhere and grow as much as it’s environment will allow it.

Words work in exactly the same way. Inspiring words can plant a seed of inspiration in another’s mind. Words of encouragement can give a needed boost. Spoken kindness will soothe a tired or harried heart. Words of gossip can destroy a reputation and place unneeded doubt into the souls of others. Retribution can be accomplished in many instances. A broken vase can be replaced. A borrowed book returned. Can a reputation be so easily repaired? Making up for our shortcomings in dealing with others is very possible, but taking back the words that can destroy another person’s well being cannot be as easily accomplished.

We can’t enter the Gates of Heaven with imperfections on our soul. Perhaps a considered thought now will keep us from suffering retribution after this life.

"Such as ye have sown must ye needs reap." Lydgate 15^th century.