This month’s parable is really about how we deal with situations that upset us and over which we have little direct control. One woman grew angry and bitter; the other channeled her outrage into more constructive activities. How do you handle strong emotions? What do you do to come to peace with events that trigger a strong emotional reaction in you?
Emotions can be a gift – spurring us to acts of strength and courage; they can also tempt us to behave unlovingly or unwisely. When has an emotion been a gift to you? When has emotional excess led you to sin?
Retell this parable from another angle or with another issue as the flashpoint – abortion, immigration, euthanasia, etc. Does the moral remain the same?
What issue or situation makes you angry? How do you deal with that anger? How do you react to people who don’t see the situation the same way you do?
When has anger spurred you into action? What did you do? Looking back, would you say that that anger was a blessing or a curse?
Our ability to feel emotions – joy and sorrow, anger and acceptance, fear and courage – is a gift. For which feelings are you most grateful? Which cause you anxiety or disquiet? Are they a gift, too?
What makes you really mad? What do you do to stop being mad at someone or something that has upset you?
What are some ways you can help make peace between friends who are angry with each other or not getting along?
Fourth of July is a celebration of freedom. What does freedom mean to you? Ask a grown-up that question this month!
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