My mother had great intentions.  She was on a life long mission to convert everyone she encountered to Christianity.  But, her approach was too demanding and rigid.  It is very sad to say that I honestly believe she did more harm than good.

She interpreted the Bible very literally and if she could not make someone agree with her in short order, she discounted them as evil, lost, or at best, one she should simply not associate with.  There ended up being countless people she believed she should not associate with.  Why?  I wondered.

Now, I think I have a better understanding.  I believe her motives were formed when she was physically abused as a child.  Seeking out God when she was fairly young was a good start, but she allowed her burning desire for vengeance grow stronger than her desire to heal the pain, forgive, and set herself free so she could learn to love others as Jesus loves us all.  Due to the darkness within her she eventually became an abuser of her own children and perpetuated the cycle for another generation.

I ended that cycle on my branch of the family tree.

Jesus himself broke bread with thieves, prostitutes, and people of all backgrounds.  His love knew no boundaries, no conditions.

Therefore, no one should stand in the way of anyone else coming to know God, no matter who they are, what they believe, or where they come from.  Everyone’s path is different.  Everyone learns differently, in their own timing, requiring varying experiences to reach a deeper understanding.  We should honor one another on this journey.

At the same time, we cannot expect others to honor our journey.   We have to honor our own.  That starts with recognizing the roots of our emotions and truly healing.

Learning how to meditate is a good way to begin.  Check out this website and give it a try.