Article May 25, 1974 Issue

Steadfast Serenity

FRANCES L. GREIG

Who hasn't longed to attain tranquillity and peace of mind, to remain unruffled when confronted with injustice, antagonism, indifference, cruelty, revenge? Paul showed he perceived the need of equanimity and had attained a measure of it when he spoke of the hardships that might befall him in Jerusalem: "None of these things move me." ^{ Acts 20:24;}

Perhaps one's employer has been unfair and unappreciative. Perhaps a husband or wife seems less than perfect. Things he or she does or does not do are annoying. Perhaps a friend or loved one has not measured up. How are we handling such situations? Do we in no uncertain and angry terms tell others what we think, or do we keep silent and inwardly boil? Obviously, neither way is the best for handling the problem.

But there is a method that will help us not react with anger to these disturbing situations but maintain our calmness and peace of mind—the Christly method Jesus used. He showed us the way of Love. When Peter asked him how many times he should forgive his brother for sinning against him—till seven times?— Jesus responded, "I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven." ^{ Matt. 18:22;} But how do we go about loving and forgiving others when everything in us wants to do otherwise?