We know the story of pro football player Michael Vick and the dogged attacks (pun intended) against President Obama for commending the Philadelphia Eagles coach on giving Vick a second chance. Mainstream media never carried a story about the real purpose of the call: converting the stadium with alternative energy sources, something that can help to move this country forward.
Or, the homeless man “with the golden voice” – Ted Williams – who now has a second chance to pursue his career and restore family relationships. Isn’t it wonderful that God preserved Williams’ gift over the years, despite the life he led?
And, let us not forget the brouhaha over Chris Brown’s “Man in the Mirror” performance last year that caused some to nearly hyperventilate and declare Brown was shedding crocodile tears. Some people seem to think that each public appearance by Brown warrants regurgitating what he did and viewing his current behavior through the prism of his past.
Now, this is not an analysis about dog fighting, drug addiction or domestic violence. Those acts are separate from a person’s desire to learn from a mistake and move on. Rather, this is about those who deem themselves worthy to stand in judgment of another person’s actions. Human nature seems to enjoy compartmentalizing ill behavior, deciding which one deserves a pass for redemption or a one-way ticket to condemnation.
Where is the demarcation between claims of holding a person accountable and the judgment seat? When do we decide that a debt has been paid and give the person permission to move on? How can we justify condemning a person over and over and over because of a mistake? Is it really a cloak for our own shortcomings and secret faults that have not been exposed to the same glaring light of public opinion?
A person says “I’m sorry.” We say, “Oh really?!” A person says “I made a mistake.” We say, “Remember when…” A person says, “I am going to do better this time.” We say, “Well, better is not good enough.”
God help us come to a point when we know compassion versus coldness; forgiveness versus retribution; love versus loathing. We all want compassion, forgiveness and love each time we fall short. Unfortunately, a sanctimonious attitude prevents some from even acknowledging the unforgiveness in their heart.
Honestly, we can learn lessons of humility and grace from each of these men. We need to look at the man or woman in the mirror, learn to be grateful and utilize our God-given talent in realizing our Greatness. That would give us plenty of time to focus on the business of our lives, rather than others.
“We have made up a God in our image. Because we are angry and judgmental, we have projected those characteristics onto Him. But God remains who He is and always will be: He is the energy, the thought of unconditional love. He cannot think with anger or judgment. He is mercy and compassion and total acceptance.” Marianne Williamson
