I did it again; I let my mouth lead me into trouble.
Last week, I was feeling overwhelmed with what I had on my plate. As the feelings of frustration built up inside, sadly I snapped at my son in front of his friends.
I reacted with hurtful words instead of responding with patience and love.
Looking back, I am embarrassed with how I replied. That evening, I knew that I needed to take responsibility for my poor choice in words and angry tone. I sat down with my son to apologize and repair the rupture.
After he accepted my apology, I realized I still did not feel at peace. I knew I needed to make it right with his friends too. Humbly, I called and apologized to each of them.
It is not easy to admit our mistakes and ask for forgiveness. Honestly, repairing the rupture is something I learned much later in life. The old me would have found reason to blame someone else for my poor choice. But now, I see the importance of owning our choices both good and bad as well as repairing any mistakes we make along the way.
We have a mantra we say at our home, “My Response is my Responsibility. Your Response is Your Responsibility.”
Even if the other person says something hurtful, I am still in control of my response. Even if the other person frustrates us, we are still responsible for our reply.
I like the word response better than reaction. We react in anger; We respond in love.
Do you need to repair any ruptures today? I know it is difficult to admit our shortcomings, but I promise you will never regret taking ownership of your choices. I would love for you to adopt the mantra, “My Response is my responsibility.” It has been life-changing for me.
One last thought: Remember no one is perfect, we are all works in progress. Give yourself grace when you mess up, repair the rupture, and then try again.
Friend, I am praying for both you and me today as we take responsibility for your choices and repair any ruptures that we need to along the way.
Love, Jodi
