While working out last week at a local fitness center, I couldn’t help but over hear a serious conversation. Discussing the recent Grand Jury verdict of Darren Wilson, each had a different perspective. The woman spoke about the importance of having self-respect. Meanwhile, the man played the victim, blaming the police and slavery for his woes.
Although I don’t have the clout of a minority, my father is an immigrant to this country. Starting from scratch in upstate New York, excuses weren’t in his vocabulary. Pushed by his mother, my dad earned his way into an Ivy League College and the Warner School of Business. My father is living proof that if you develop discipline, self-respect and work hard, anything is possible.
On the other side of the spectrum, are those who play the victim card. Adam and Eve emulated this endless circle after getting caught red handed with a half-eaten apple. According to Moses, Adam blamed Eve, indirectly throwing God under the bus, “the woman you put me here with,” Genesis 3:12. Not willing to take the fall, Eve redirected sole responsibility to the serpent, “he deceived me,” Genesis 3:13. Subsequently, a generation of victims has been born.
Today, socioeconomics often play a vital role in the worldview you hold. However, that doesn’t mean individuals can’t have a dream of a better life. Although many fail, self-respect is a foundation for keeping hope alive. Self-pity doesn’t solve any problems, its only an excuse to be held down by negativity. Therefore, if you want to experience a slice of heaven on earth, turn in your victim card for faith in the Lord, Psalm 115:11.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 