Gentleness

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 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1.

Gentleness. It is true that a response that is gentle turns away wrath. But what is a gentle response? It isn’t about being quiet, or submissive. It is about showing respect to the other person or persons that we need to provide an answer for. It is about accepting both parts in a situation. I know that many times I am part of the problem. I reacted, or said something that angers someone. Or someone does something to me or does something that makes me angry. I need to stop, take a deep breath. Pause before movement to ensure gentleness. For me gentleness isn’t about getting my way, but understanding the other person’s response or actions. It truly is about walking in their shoes. I still might not like something, but by doing this compassion and empathy may lead my answering. Today this is my whisper as we are coming to the end of the school year and students are getting bold, and results. Alas, the life of a teacher. I need to remember to pause before I react…as difficult as this is, I am still trying to discipline myself to pause. I want to be be gentle in my responses so I ask that you pray for me so that I can pause when needed on the path….


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