| Boy
oh boy! What would we do without our computers? How about
those new cameras which enable us to view pictures immediately?
How about the phone advancements? We are indeed a blessed
generation!
But, how about
our peacemaking? Have we improved in this area of living?
Wouldn't life be better if we focused on our blessings
instead of our trials? And do we ask God to help us see
our own weaknesses and the virtues of others? (This has
been the prayer that has been answered the most quickly
of anything I have ever prayed for!) Think how much nicer
life would be if we didn't have to listen to gossip, backbiting
or criticism!
After I divorced
the father of our six children, it was over thirty years
before we spoke again. I can thank my ex-husband for insisting
that I attend the wedding reception of our eldest granddaughter
so we could mend our fences. It was one of the hardest
things I have ever done, but it was also one of the most
rewarding things I have ever done.  Since
then, we have become "phone pals" and keep in
touch to share family news. I can say he was right in
insisting that I attend. Two of my children cried during
the entire first visit; one daughter had never seen her
mother and dad talk together. Luckily, his second wife
was also a peacemaker. I can surely recommend that other
divorced couples reopen the lines of communication and
enjoy the subsequent peacemaking.
Thankfully,
our relationship while married was not tumultuous. I did
not come from a quarrelsome family and neither did Hank,
my husband. Even though we eventually divorced, ours had
never been a contentious relationship. So, does this give
me the right to share tips for a peacemaking home? Perhaps
so! I tell myself that the reason we married must have
been to combine bloodlines. Once that was accomplished,
it seemed to be, "mission accomplished" as we
moved on. Here are a few tips for enjoying peacemaking
blessings:
 Learn
to not criticize, condemn or complain
Focus
on the virtues of others & pay sincere compliments
Smile,
be polite and kind to one another
Be
thankful and positive; count our blessings
Use
music to bring cheer and unity into our lives
Focus
on giving service to others instead of ourselves
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