Tolerance

Over and over again, we witness a lack of tolerance amongst us and see those with similar views group together and act against others.
As Christians we are always being asked to be tolerant of others, but what does it actually mean? For most of us it means putting up with something we don't like, the bible tells us to be tolerant, Matthew 7.1 (NIV) "Do not judge or you too will be judged"

How many times do we not tolerate others, their ideas, their practises? Do you want them to follow your own ideas and practises? If you stop and listen to yourself is it that the other person has to be tolerant of you but not you don't have to be tolerant of them, are you saying they should do something else that pleases you and conforms to your ideas and practises? No one is perfect all the time and we can lead a much happier life with tolerance flowing both ways.

As Christians we need to demonstrate love and understanding and it can be done without being judgmental and without conditions. According to Dictionary.com, one definition of tolerance is that it is "a fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward opinions and practices that differ from one's own."

I'm not saying that you sit back and do nothing as this shows no tolerance at all. If you look at the definition above (again) it says objectively, fairly a permissive attitude - not roll over. It is possible to have discussions with people that are respectful even if we don't share the same beliefs and practises. There are lots of examples that we accept without saying anything, for example gossip, if people are gossiping do you let it go, join in even or do you do something about it and be honest with yourself? True tolerance allows us to listen to what the other person is saying. When we listen, we can have great discussions that bridge divides rather than grow rifts.

Even if you do not agree with someone that you feel you must share on the issue, do so in a non-attacking way; maybe ask more questions about their views, differences or cultural beliefs and respectfully share back what you know. Being tolerant can in fact be a good thing, you have to listen and learn, learn more from the person you are having the discussion with, asking questions may just bring a better understanding of why they do what they do and may even enhance what you believe.

Use this verse that promotes tolerance for personal reflection and meditation in quiet moments.

May we remember
In our humanity
We are part of a world family.

Tolerance
Noting differences
While remaining peaceful.

Recognizing that each
Has the right
To determine their reality.

Tolerance
Allowing us to remain calm
When we think others should act differently.

Tolerance breeding happiness
As we take tender insights
Into living.

Tolerance
Blossoming in peace, joy, happiness, love.
Acceptance in love by practicing love.

Meditation - Susan Helene Kramer