I awoke to a frustrated and anger-tinged text from someone I will name Cassie. The text was meant to help me with a project we were involved in but I sensed indirect criticism of group members.
I thought to myself, “Why is Cassie frustrated with people who are involved in much bigger challenges? I appreciate Cassie’s help, but these details could easily be worked out in our next meeting without inflammatory texts.”
Do I call Cassie and confront the anger and manipulation I sensed in the text or do I remain silent? My confused emotions were becoming angry when the picture of a teapot broke into my thoughts. I began to laugh hilariously.
Several days earlier, the words Tinker Bell, firefly and teapot, fell in rapid order, into my imagination. Sensing a divine lesson, I researched Tinker Bell and fireflies. I thought I knew about teapots.
The fictional fairy, Tinker Bell, originally fixed pots. She communicated with a soothing to the ear, tinkling bell sound. Synchronous fireflies are the only species in the United States who can synchronize their flashing light patterns.
I get that human beings all suffer from defects causing others hurt and harm. We definitely could help bring unity and healing through, soothing to the ears, empathetic listening and truth.
As I considered the troubling text, the meaning of Tinker Bell, the synchronous firefly and the teapot suddenly crystalized. Filled with understanding, I said quietly to myself, “The synchronous fireflies represent light and life in unity. We need that if we are going to live in peace.
Tinker Bell represents individuals motivated to listen with healing empathy and engage with loving and instructive dialogue. I can’t be a Tinker Bell without first letting go of my angry teapot-like steam.”
Anger left as I chose to engage in helpful conversation, instead of being trapped in thoughts causing more disunity. When I phoned Cassie, I learned she wasn’t aware of the bigger picture challenges surrounding our group. Empathy replaced her anger.
Validating each other’s frustrations, we agreed that more honest communication would help the group achieve goals. Cassie and I prayed for God to bring His healing wisdom, love and unity to each one in our group. And through our peaceful communication, we grew in understanding and respect for one another.
Instead, there must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts and attitudes. You must display a new nature because you are a new person, created in God’s likeness–righteous, holy, and true. So put away all falsehood and “tell your neighbor the truth” because we belong to each other. And “don’t sin by letting anger gain control over you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a mighty foothold to the Devil. (NLT: Ephesians 4: 23 – 27)