The renowned anthropologist Margaret Mead
described jealousy as a festering spot in every personality that includes a
negative undesirable attitude. You would think a smart achieving person would
not succumb to jealousy, but everyone has areas where superiority cannot
overshadow feelings of inferiority.
A
friend related how astonished she was by a family member’s jealous behavior that
surfaced whenever she came to visit. This friend is intelligent, a good host
capable of doing whatever it takes to avoid conflict. However, when her relative
came to visit, happy times evaporated as spiteful barbs and jibes were expressed.
My
friend decided to e-mail her relative seeking a resolution. She spelled out what
she observed to be the issue. She encouraged her relative to give suggestions
for a resolution. They agreed to work toward reconciliation and forgiveness. Patience
and courage were required, but knowing God would honor and bless their efforts
was encouraging.
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