Zip the Lip
courtesy of clipart-library.com
Easier said than done, right? I walked with a friend recently and we both had a lot to say about the upcoming election, the death of Justice Ginsburg, and the state of affairs in the lives of some of our grandchildren.
It was nice to talk things over without fear of judgment or an attempt to persuade one another of the so-called correct position.
I gave that up years ago. We are who we are and we’re each entitled to make our own choices and decisions and to share opinions, and that includes about family members of every generation. In fact, the youngins have taught me plenty. And I hope they’ve picked up a thing or two from me. But if not, that is just fine. The lessons my grandfather displayed in his life didn’t always sit well with me but today as an older woman, Grandpa Gerald lives on in my mind and heart.
He showed me (rather than lecturing) kindness to all, regardless of beliefs. Love for our fellow humans just because they are who they are, created in the image of God, and taking time each day to read the Bible and to enjoy a good laugh. And he loved ice cream, every last spoonful. I remember that with a smile.
In today’s culture you don’t have to go far to hear an opinion––whether you’re looking for it or not. It’s not like the ‘old days’ when our sources of news and views were limited to the newspaper, the next door neighbor, or the radio.
When I see the lack of charity and the pervasive judgments spewed across social media I think back to Grandpa. He shared loving memories of his boyhood in Ireland and always had delightful questions about my bowling score or spelling test or dance partner, but other than that–Grandpa knew when to ‘zip the lip.’ May his legacy live on in me.
Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. (Colossians 3:12)
Well said!
Thanks, Glenda.
Terrific post! Yes…I find that especially helpful to do on Facebook. In my life,I have learned that we can agree to disagree and how to fight fair in 5 easy steps.
Thanks, Chloe. I agree with your point about FB. I’m staying clear of social media for awhile so I can keep my lip zipped.
I enjoy your blogs a lot Karen and I agree with your advice that most of the time we need to “zip the lip’, especially with family. I think however, there are times for Christians to take a stand on an important issue-I’m thinking of Bonhoefer during the Holocaust. I’m from Canada ,so my opinion doesn’t count but I have taken a firm stand about President Trump and his ideologies that may spread into our country- they are evil. We pray for you and our fellow Americans- we live 10 minutes from the US border.
Thanks for sharing your perspective and thanks for praying for our country during this difficult time.
I enjoy your blogs a lot Karen and I agree with your advice that most of the time we need to “zip the lip’, especially with family. I think however, there are times for Christians to take a stand on an important issue-I’m thinking of Bonhoefer during the Holocaust. I’m from Canada ,so my opinion doesn’t count but I have taken a firm stand about President Trump and his ideologies that may spread into our country- they are evil. We pray for you and our fellow Americans- we live 10 minutes from the US border. (Sorry I didn’t want to leave my reply as anonymous so I posted again.)
Thanks, Angela.
Right on, Girl! Zip the lip reminds me of a “saying” (have no clue who said it~ha! but it is clever -not even sure exactly how it goes, perhaps someone reading this can give me a clue. Something about someone saying foolish things and thinking they might be labled as a fool so it is better to Keep your mouth shut than to remove all doubt?? HELP! smile, in fact laugh out loud, it is healthy and let me know what I am TRYING TO SAY!
I agree with Glenda: Well said.
Love you. Margaret
I found this on the Internet regarding what you wanted help with.
Abraham Lincoln – Quote – Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and to remove all doubt.
Excellent Karen. I too have learned to zip the lips and keep the peace …. or …… mind my own business.
A tough lesson to learn but well worth remembering at times! I smile now when I practice this learned tool towards happiness and kindness. Wonderful that you were able to find that quote!! Good sleuthing!!
Hi Kathleen. Thanks for your comment. I too, find life to be a lot more peaceful when I think before I speak.😊❤️
YEAH, Karen~thanks for letting me know what I wanted to say! Now I do remember!
love you! Margaret
You’re most welcome.
Working on “Zipping It.” Thanks Karen.
There is such freedom in Grace.
Smiles, B
I agree. Freedom in grace! Thanks for checking in.