Mary of Magdala

I really enjoyed the strong role of Mary Magdalene in the new movie Son of God. It inspired me to look a little more into her story. 
  
Much speculation has surfaced about Mary Magdalene's role in Christ's life and her role in the early part of Christianity. A non-canonical book, the Gospel of Mary was discovered in 1896. In one of the passages, Peter is mocking Mary and Levi says, "Now I see you contending against the woman like the adversaries. But if the Saviour made her worthy, who are you indeed to reject her?" 

Even without the official acknowledgement of the Gospel of Mary as a biblical text, the Bible still portrays Mary Magdalene as an important figure in the early followers of Christ and messengers of the Christian faith. She was one of the first disciples of Christ and faithfully followed him everywhere, she was there when he died and when he was resurrected. 

Strength in Women should not threatening - I am glad to see more media portraying Women as respected peers and in a positive light! 

Perceptions will change in time!

HAVE FAITH

Project the Positive

Next time you are having a challenge with a coworker or supervisor, try projecting the positive into the situation.


Focus on a possible resolution to the conflict. Imagine a resolution and work towards that through projecting those ideas into the situation. 

Use Statements such as: 

"I know that we can come to a good working relationship.""I feel confident that we can overcome this challenge.""I am committed to making this a good working relationship." 

"I understand how you could feel that way."

You most likely will take them off guard and that is one of the biggest challenges to any resolution ~ people taking offense and putting up a defense.


“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” 
― Dalai Lama XIV

First blogged 3/4/12

Build Bridges

Not Walls

Communication in its basic form, is a method of relaying information. Communication can be either destructive or constructive depending on the delivery. Poor communication can ruin marriages, destroy friendships, and erode business relationships.

We may feel hurt by what someone has said. Instead of taking the time to process the words of another, we often just react with pure emotion - throwing an emotional brick back in their face. 

Those bricks soon construct an insurmountable wall. 

When possible, in interpersonal communication, think your responses through first. Allow yourself to really understand what was said to you. Ask clarifying questions if need be. Try to see the situation from their perspective. Weigh the benefits versus the repercussions of your response. Examine your motive, are you seeking resolution or just retaliating from an offense.

Choose to respond in a way that fosters a better relationship with that person and works towards forward progress. 

Next time you throw out a brick - make sure it is used to build a bridge rather than fortify a wall. 

Originally blogged 2/29/12