THE BLOG

Out of curiosity recently I did some research concerning the largest ship ever to sail the seven seas. The ship, no longer in existence, was named Seawise Giant. It was a cargo ship so large that that it would not fit into the Panama nor Suez canals nor the English Channel. It was 1504’ long and 225 feet wide. Turned on its end, it would have been taller than the Empire State Building.

Not too many days ago my wife and I, along with millions of others living in the Southeastern U.S., awoke to find evidence that during the night Hurricane Helene had left devastating and disruptive destruction and heartache in its path.  We would find out later in the day that all around our area of upstate S.C., huge oak trees had fallen – blocking roads, damaging homes, and bringing power poles and power lines crashing to the ground.

The exercise of the power of “ig-NOR-ance” is a two-edged sword.  To intentionally disregard someone or something can help you or hurt you – even endanger you. For example, to ignore RR crossing warnings or a “Bridge Out Ahead” sign can be deadly.  To ignore wise counsel regarding weaknesses in your character can lead to relational or professional suicide.  On the other hand, to ignore unjustified criticism can help you manage your emotional health and bring you peace.  Renowned philosopher Charlie Brown of the Peanut cartoon series was spot on when he said, “The less you respond to rude, critical, argumentative people, the more peaceful your life will become.”