The Gift of Experience: Hope Prevails

Right or Happy?

Sometimes we just have to ask ourselves: Do I want to be right or do I want to be happy? Some of us are familiar with those age-old arguments where we can predict the entire conversation, or shouting match as the case might be. But really, when you think about it, what is the point of continuing on in those types of arguments? We already know the outcome, be it slamming doors, tears or ignoring the other person. Why bother with those strained emotions when we can go merrily about our way? Is it more important to be right or to be happy? I mean honestly, perhaps God is not dealing with the other person on that particular issue yet. We have been told time and again that we cannot change another person, so why bother expending energy trying? What we can do is behave ourselves. We can be an example to the other person. We can live by the Golden Rule. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The key here is acceptance, and more specifically accepting imperfection. No one has the perfect amount of strength in every area of their life. We must give others leeway, give them space to make mistakes without judging and criticizing everything they do that does not meet our high standards. Putting high expectations on others is unfair. Our partner IS good enough, or we wouldn't be with them to begin with. They may make mistakes, and they may need improvement, but they are good enough. So which is more important, being right in every conversation you have-even if it means making you and/or someone else miserable, or being happy and giving in a little? I know, for me, I want to just be happy.