James 1:19-20 - Who needs a mask, anymore?
Those of us in healthcare are constantly wearing face masks. It gets wearisome at times. If you yawn, the mask shifts. What if you have to blow your nose because of allergies? Glasses get steamed up no matter what kind of nose clip is on the mask. The helpful suggestions online, like putting shaving cream on your glasses? HA!
Regardless, we keep wearing masks for the protection of patients and others. But how do you share a sympathetic glance with someone when half your face is covered up? An encouraging smile is impossible, and trying to "smile with the eyes" isn't easy!
Some patients are hard of hearing. Then, masks really dampen the conversation. I'm finding that patients are more frequently asking me to repeat myself. But that's not all that bad. Sometimes, I come up with a better way of saying something, or realize that some things weren't worth saying in the first place.
James 1:19–20 (NASB95) "...Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God."
No wonder that Proverbs 10:19 says,
"When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise."
Anger can multiply needless words, and needless words can foment anger. Sometimes what I need is a "mask" to hold back impulsive words, a reminder to not say the first thing that comes to mind.
Father in heaven, we need Your grace and graciousness to filter what we say. When we get frustrated with having to wear a mask, use it to remind us to be "quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger." In Jesus' name, Amen.
Regardless, we keep wearing masks for the protection of patients and others. But how do you share a sympathetic glance with someone when half your face is covered up? An encouraging smile is impossible, and trying to "smile with the eyes" isn't easy!
Some patients are hard of hearing. Then, masks really dampen the conversation. I'm finding that patients are more frequently asking me to repeat myself. But that's not all that bad. Sometimes, I come up with a better way of saying something, or realize that some things weren't worth saying in the first place.
James 1:19–20 (NASB95) "...Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God."
No wonder that Proverbs 10:19 says,
"When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise."
Anger can multiply needless words, and needless words can foment anger. Sometimes what I need is a "mask" to hold back impulsive words, a reminder to not say the first thing that comes to mind.
Father in heaven, we need Your grace and graciousness to filter what we say. When we get frustrated with having to wear a mask, use it to remind us to be "quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger." In Jesus' name, Amen.
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