Are you ready for me to ruffle the feathers of Faith, religious and spiritual followers across the board? Why do you ask? Because, this concept of “love thy neighbor” sends me into complete and utter self- turmoil. To the point, I want to throw apologetics out my second story window and scream! Yep, some of you just read that sentence and immediately became offended or defensive. I’m sorry but I struggle with “love thy neighbor”, I mean have you met my neighbors? Why should I love them? Clearly hygiene is not a priority in their life? I am talking both body cleanliness and the inside/outside of their home.
Why should I even care about them let alone love them? I am pretty certain they do not give a flying hoot about me when they are smashing their 6th bottle of bud light in my yard, leaving it for me to clean up later.
Mark 12:31 (NIV) States:
31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” Well, I guess I am in trouble because I have a hard time showing love towards those I feel don’t deserve it. I just got goosebumps typing that sentence, I mean who am I to judge? How can I be 100% certain that someone else is less deserving of my love? I have no idea their personal struggles, challenges, obstacles etc.
What I do know is being the bigger person has put me in a “lets walk all over Liz” situations. People will take advantage of your nice gestures and start using you, once they see you exhibit the “bigger person” mentality. How do I “love thy neighbor and be the bigger person” without being taken complete advantage of?
The only solution I have come up with is lead by example. I have instilled in my brain the motto: “Be change you want to see in the world”~ Gandhi. Without love what is left? Without inspiration where is the drive to be anything more? I have faith my neighbors will stop being irresponsible and think of my son who uses the grassy yard they throw glass bottles in. Do you love your neighbors? Do you have any suggestions on how to make it easier??
