Like
radiation from outer space, there is in life a constant flow of objective facts
in the physical world. Those facts
include what individuals say or do, what groups of people say or do, and what I
say or do. Most of the time, however, it
is not the fact itself but its meaning
to which we respond - and each of us is responsible for discerning what that
meaning is for us.
In discerning the meaning of what people say and do,
what filters do I use? Is my perception
of the meaning of facts based on self-righteous judgment or fear? Or is it based on guidance from the Holy
Spirit; on love, an open mind, and a desire for growth and contribution?