Accepting Sufferings

[tsnfan]

I have a question regarding accepting sufferings and injustices. When is it justified to accept a wrong one has committed versus confronting them and reacting to it in everyday life? I know what the Gospel says, but the Church also mentions that there are times to take action. Some occurrences are tailgating, bullying at work or school, cutting in line, etc.

 

[guanophore]

When is it justified to accept a wrong one has committed versus confronting them and reacting to it in everyday life? I

These are not opposed to each other. One can say something about being wronged, and still accept the suffering it brings. In fact, I would say that it is important to be able to confront evil, and it is important to inform others when you feel wronged. They may be in ignorance. Instructing the ignorant is one of the spiritual works of mercy.

the Church also mentions that there are times to take action. Some occurrences are tailgating, bullying at work or school, cutting in line, etc.

If someone is tailgaiting you warn them by tapping the brakes, slow down and encourage them to go around you, pull over and let them pass. This is aggressive and dangerous driving and should be avoided.

Bullying anywhere should not be tolerated. We should all speak up and take action. Intervene, document, talk to a supervisor, and talk to human resources.

Cutting in line is rude and prideful. One can confront the offender by asking “why is it so important to you to be first, that you disrespect others to get there?” It may not make a difference but you can plant seeds. This might be a situation to turn the other cheek. It is not dangerous or illegal.

 

[Dan_Defender]

It would be a case-by-case decision. You have to balance judgement, charity, justice.

 

[margaret42]

Yeah, I agree about “turning the other cheek” on this. It might also be “prideful” to say, “you cut in front of me”.

 

[guanophore]

Yeah, I agree about “turning the other cheek” on this. It might also be “prideful” to say, “you cut in front of me”.

Well, it is just telling the person something they already know. If anything is going to be said, it should be something to inform the other person, as instructing the ignorant is an act of mercy. “It is disrespectful to cut in front of others in the line”.

 

[Jump4Joy]

How is it prideful to inform someone they cut you in line? Unless they are elderly or a child, that behavior is a little wrong in my opinion

 

[Norseman82]

Well, one of my general rules in life is that I may be required to turn my own cheek, but I can’t turn anybody else’s cheek for them. So ask yourself if this person poses a harm to others, and would taking action prevent him/her from harming others?

Also, sometimes confronting or reporting someone itself may entail suffering, either in the inconvenience (say if there is legal action, you may have to take the time to go to court as a witness, etc.) or harassment.

 

[Seagull]

 

[po18guy]

1. Tailgating: Move over, pull to the shoulder and allow them to pass. Tailgating is Illegal and dangeorus, but you don’t know what is on their mind.
2. Bullying depends on the situation and seriousness. If physical intimidation or the threat of assault is present, it is time for action. Otherwise, pray for that person, as they really need it.
3. If someone cutting in front of you (rude, but not illegal or threatening) is the worst you will have to endure, blessed are you! Pray for them.
4. You need not be a doormat, but neither must you react to everything that displeases you - you would have time for nothing else.

Always and everywhere, pray for them. It helps you. It helps them.

 

[margaret42]

what I mean is that it’s not something to make an issue out of when someone comes in front of you. It makes you seem more important. Like you said, unless there is a reason to tell them.

 

[Jump4Joy]

Not really. I think the other person is prideful in assuming they cut others and aren’t subject to the rules. If it is an accident, sure. If I’m waiting in Disneyland and a family decides to cut me, I’d be pissed. Those lines are long enough. They should wait patiently like others. Being passive doesn’t always equal humility. I’m tired of that idea.