II. Blessed are the meek (gentle) for they shall inherit the earth (Mt.5:4)
December 1, 2006
What provokes anger, Aristotle tells us, is insult.
People get angry when they think others have not shown them due respect. There are those who have an inflated opinion of themselves, therefore, are prone to fly into a rage over what others might consider little or no provocation. Furthermore, those who are puffed up with self-importance are insensitive to the feelings of others and the need for tact and delicacy.
Gentle people, on the other hand, have a true opinion of themselves. They respect themselves and others. They are aware of the human dignity of everyone and treat all they meet with profound respect. They are sensitive to the feelings of those around them and are at pains to put everyone at ease. They are quick to notice those who are shy and reticent and draw them into the conversation by speaking of topics familiar to them. The gentle are careful not to cause embarrassment to anyone and avoid topics of conversation that might provoke uneasiness, anger or hostility in the minds of others. If any unpleasantness should arise, they are quick to dispel it without ever drawing attention to themselves.
Because they are sensitive to the feelings of others and eager to adapt themselves to each situation, they are always welcome in any gathering. For they put everyone at ease. They are not prone to gossip or criticize, so others trust them and confide in them. Gentle people always act with consideration. They are friends and neighbors who share in the joys and sufferings of all they meet. They give of themselves spontaneously and generously. They know from their own experience the truth of Our Lord’s teaching: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Gentle people are blessed because they are greatly loved.
Gentle people are seldom in a hurry. They do their work quietly and efficiently and without becoming preoccupied. For they are conscious of the beauty of the world and appreciate it. They appreciate the beauty of nature and are careful to utilize their resources in ways that respect the natural order of things. They do not make many demands. They do not clutter their lives with things they do not need. Their wants are few. They live simply and enjoy life profoundly.
For the gentle see all creation as God’s handiwork as they see God’s image in all people. They know that “the earth is the Lord’s and all who dwell on it.” Because they love God and are conscious of his goodness, they feel at home wherever they are and with everyone they meet, so others feel at peace with them.
Truly, the meek are blessed. They shall indeed inherit the earth and because they are like Christ, who was gentle and humble of heart, they shall also inherit eternal life.
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