Reflection authored by: Joan Quinlin, Parishioner
Conflict is inevitable in our lives. We each have our own ideals and opinions and every situation we are in will find us with people that have their own opinions and ideas that may be different than ours.
As children we disagree with our siblings and friends over toys, games, TV programs, etc.
As teenagers we don’t always see eye to eye with our parents, teachers or friends on home rules, assignments, activities or things we should or shouldn’t do.
As adults we have to work with our family, roommates or spouses, employers and employees on how to live and work peacefully.
Most problems are worked out by a discussion or rules that are set by an authority or a common understanding between parties.
Other times things lead to a more complicated problems and need a confrontation to settle them.
One of my biggest confrontation was with my sister after my Father passed away in the early 1990’s. My Mother decided to move closer to one of her children, who all lived hours from our hometown.
After 6 months of visiting, talking and praying she decided to move to my brother’s in Texas. My brother was mid 40’s with many health problems and unable to work because of poor eyesight and home alone most of the day and she saw a place to be helpful. My sister was not happy because she was a single parent with 2 teenage girls and wanted my Mother’s help. We called a family meeting and with many prayers, opinions and discussion it was resolved by it being my Mother’s choice and needs.
Any time you are in a conflict and need a confrontation-pray hard for all parties involved, yourself, and a satisfying solution.
PRAY, be OPEN, LISTEN, Share and explain the issues and DISCUSS and stick to the topic and hope for a peace agreement for all parties.