Don’t Step in Other People’s Poop: A Lesson in Handling Opinions
Have you ever been walking down the street, enjoying a beautiful day with friends or family, when suddenly you spot it? That unwelcome sight of dog poop left behind by an irresponsible owner. What do you do? You certainly don’t step in it, right?
This seemingly simple scenario holds a profound lesson for our spiritual and personal growth. Let’s dive into this analogy and see how it relates to handling the opinions and words of others in our daily lives.
The Poop Analogy: Opinions on the Sidewalk of Life
Imagine for a moment that the poop on the sidewalk represents the negative opinions, criticisms, or hurtful words that others may throw our way. Just like that unwanted mess on the pavement, these opinions are:
- Not of our making
- Unpleasant to encounter
- Something we’d rather avoid
But here’s the kicker: just as we choose to step around the poop, we have the power to choose how we react to others’ opinions.
The Wisdom of Ginger Zee
As I reflected on this analogy, I was reminded of a powerful quote I’ve had on my refrigerator for the past decade. Ginger Zee from Good Morning America once said:
“You sometimes can’t do anything about what people say, but your reaction to what they say is up to you.”
This statement encapsulates a fundamental truth that aligns perfectly with our Christian walk. We may not control the words or actions of others, but we absolutely have control over our response.
Renting Space in Your Mind
Now, let’s take this a step further. Think about the opinions of others as tenants in the apartment of your mind. Are these opinions paying rent for the space they’re occupying? Are they contributing positively to your life, or are they squatters, taking up valuable mental real estate without offering any benefits?
As children of God, we’re called to be discerning about what we allow to influence our thoughts and actions. Philippians 4:8 reminds us:
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Living Authentically Under Christ
This doesn’t mean we should disregard all feedback or live without consideration for others. Far from it! As followers of Christ, we’re called to love our neighbors and live in community. However, we must balance this with the understanding that our ultimate validation comes from God, not from the ever-changing opinions of those around us.
When we know we’re living a life that honors God—striving to be Christlike in our actions and attitudes—we can find peace amidst the storm of others’ opinions. We can step around the “poop” on life’s sidewalk without letting it soil our shoes or stink up our day.
A Challenge for You
As we wrap up, I want to leave you with a thought-provoking question:
If today were the last day of your life, would you act in response to others’ opinions of you, or would you live authentically, guided by your faith and values?
Let’s choose to walk confidently in the path God has set before us, stepping around the negativity that others may leave in our way. Remember, you have the power to choose your reaction. Don’t let others’ opinions become the poop you carry home on your shoes.
Walk tall, walk proud, and most importantly, walk in faith. After all, the only opinion that truly matters is the one held by the One who created you and loves you unconditionally.
