Then I went on my walk again to continue to collect beer cans alongside the road and I was listening to a podcast on cultural differences. It is by Sarah Lanier whose book and teaching I think is the best on understanding culture. A little while later it made me think of one culture in particular that I’ve had a particular difficult time with. I had a roommate from this country whose attitude and behavior was very offensive to me. Then I went on a ministry trip with another woman from this same country and we clashed terribly the whole time. It was this latter person I began to think about.
The reality is that I was a total jerk–arrogant, demanding, caring me for my own desire to be respected than to actually be the one who shows respect. I was a big part of the problem. And the cultures clashed too. It was bad.
I was thinking of her and also thinking of who to pray for when I thought that healing takes different forms. In fact, I really believe a lot of sickness is rooted in anger and bitterness of heart. I wondered if she still feels bitterness towards me? For me I know that while I don’t feel anger and bitterness, I still don’t have kind thoughts towards this culture.
So I began to search for her on the internet to see if I could communicate with her. I found where she lives but there’s no address (unless you want to pay a strong fee). I found her page on Facebook but she doesn’t seem to check it. But for now that’s what I decided to do. I wrote her a note, explained what a jerk I was (not much needing to explain that but confession is good for the soul), and I asked her to forgive me. I hope she does. I hope she has healed from that time and season.
Maybe I didn’t pray for a physical ailment to be healed, but tonight I prayed for someone’s spirit to mend. I think this too is a part of the healing process.
