...anything at all.
There isn’t just one thing people believe about me that isn’t true, but a plethora of misconceptions. But I think the real question is:
Why does it even matter?
It’s exhausting trying to convince people of ideas outside their own beliefs unless they’re truly open to it. And if they were open to it, they wouldn’t hold on to any misconceptions—they would just ask me, and I’d tell them the truth. And they’d believe it.
But most people don’t want the truth; they want their version of it. People will believe what they wish to believe, just as I have my own set of beliefs. They will treat you based on the narrative they want to place you in.
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.” — Proverbs 19:9
I’ve had people completely abandon me because of the lies they told themselves about me. But what can I really do about that? Well, at the time, I tried to do everything I could to keep them around; to prove that I was worth something. I even waited years (yup, you read that right). But none of it mattered to them. They and their company treated me colder than anything I’ve ever experienced—or ever will again. They just didn’t care whether I lived or died when they pretended to be someone of a substantial position in my life. That, unfortunately, was the lie that stood present.
I learned big lessons from that bizarre experience. One lesson that stands out is this: Let people think whatever they wish to think about you. You don’t have to treat them the same way either. Forgive them, even if it breaks your heart and you don’t understand, and move forward with the help of God.
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” — Romans 12:17-19
It’s a waste of time trying to change someone’s mind when they don’t want to. I think it’s okay to state the truth to someone once or twice. But if they won’t hear it, it’s pointless. Instead, I have found something far more useful to do: seek God.
He already knows the truth about me, more than I even know about myself. And He is my defender. He will fight for me. He will vindicate me.
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” — Exodus 14:14
If someone really loves you or cares about you, they will be open to knowing the truth about you rather than making up a version of your character that justifies their attitude toward you, let alone the choices they are making that is driving their skewed view of you (a bunch of empty excuses really).
You don’t have to retaliate. You don’t even have to witness their downfall. Just go on and live your life. Pray for them sincerely. Be the best version of yourself with God’s help. Let Him mold you and showcase your character.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
I don’t worry about people’s opinions anymore. I just want to be the best person I can be through Christ, who strengthens me.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13
What about you? Do you care what others think about you? And if you do, then why?
Thanks for stopping by today. As always:
I pray many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many blessings over you!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Rosalyn Rose