929) Sometimes it’s hard to see outside of our own worlds. We can get caught up in our concerns, problems, work and family and not see anyone else. Because we are often focused on ourselves, we can sometimes interact with people in whatever “state” we are in. If we’re frustrated, then we may respond in an irritated manner. If we are angry, we may reflect this in our speech with others. The problem with this is, everyone else has their own concerns, problems, work and family difficulties and when we do this, it adds to others’ burdens.

Jesus illustrates how to interact with others gently. In John 4:1-28, he speaks with a Samaritan woman, a race the Jews of Jesus’ day hated. He speaks to her in a calm, nonjudgmental manner and, as a result, she and her family become his followers.

Sometimes it’s important to take a deep breath before interacting with others when you have a lot on your plate. It’s worth the effort and others will appreciate it, too.