I don't know when in their lives that this behavior becomes part of who some people are, but it seems to start as children. All children will say mean things to each other without thinking, but there are those who seem to be almost gleeful when their target cries or lashes out or withdraws. I see this happen sometimes and I want to shake the parents and tell them that this will not be a trait that will serve their children well later in life. Because, one day, when they are grown, they might still be mean to children and that is not ok.
I read a post this week about a child who was made to feel ashamed by her new stepmother. You can read it for yourself at Blissful Babble. It knocked me off my feet. My father (who I have a decent, if somewhat unengaged relationship with) has been married to the same women since I was 9. For the record, she and I have no relationship. The funny thing is, I don't really know why she is one of those people who wants to make me feel bad about myself. I pray all the time for this to change and for God to heal our relationship, but so far it hasn't happened. I have come across other people like this over the years and they always confuse me. I don't know where this type of behavior comes from, I only know that it is one of the cruelest things in the world.
It has taken me years to come to the realization that I am good enough. I still struggle with blessings from God because I don't always feel worthy of them. But, I know that I make a point to tell my children how fantastic, worthy, smart and capable they are. I hope that this will block the inevitable meetings with these people that they will have over the years and I hope that they realize that I know them much more than some silly adult with a mean streak.
See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. Matthew 18:10 ESV
It's so sad that there are people like this. But you're doing right...all you can do is pray when they won't change. And it's the worst when this behavior is directed towards children. My husband and I deal with this a lot with certain family members as well.
ReplyDeleteYou have a beautiful family! Stopping by from SITS!
Hey sista! This post is such a blessing for me! What a Joy, sounds strange I know. I'm guessing you were talking about my post. I don't want to sound like I'm patting myself on the back, but the point in my writing is to move people and make them think. Its sad but sometimes we have to walk away from people who are just hurtful, we can't change them. Keep praying and God will work on their hearts. we need more mothers like you out there. Thanks for you comment on my post I'm now following you. Have a blessed day.
ReplyDeleteBTW you can link to posts if you want to share them with your readers (not that you have to) by making a hyper link. Its something I had to have my 12 year old show me how to do. I may link back to your post...I'm thinking about posting about lossing the point of my blog.
Thanks Michelle! I couldn't find your post for the life of me. You are all linked up now!
ReplyDeleteIt is so so sad when the person that writes of these worst kind of people is one of the ring leaders of these types. The worst kind of people are really the fakest and troublemaking liars that are destroying everything that is godly and paving a path to hell for themselves and their kids. They see the real you.
ReplyDelete