A newspaper article told of a man who was walking toward an open subway car when he felt a body brush by him.  Instinctively, he reached for his pocket and discovered he didn’t have his wallet.  Shouting and running, he grabbed the person who had bumped against him.  He tugged wildly at the stranger’s sleeve, trying to stop him from escaping into the departing subway. The subway door slammed shut, but not before he had ripped off the suspected pick-pocket’s coat sleeve.

Later that night at home the man discovered his “stolen” wallet had been on his dresser all day. He had left home without it.

How often do we rush into things without thinking? Jumping to conclusions can lead to problems. Not only can we get upset and stressed, but we can hurt the feelings of innocent people or even do physical harm. To avoid problems, it is always best to follow the old adage, “look before you leap.”

To avoid going over the edge into the abyss of wrong conclusions, try these ideas from one with many bruises from hard landings.

First, keep cool. Apply the brakes to your racing mind and rising temper. When calm you think more clearly. Breathe deep, count to ten, or a hundred if necessary, and ask God to give you His peace and wisdom.

Secondly, think through the problem. Consider all the possibilities. Perception is not always reality. List your prejudices and assumptions.

Label the facts and your fabrications.

Finally, evaluate the solutions. Try the most positive answers first.

( Peter Frans – Principal Consultant)