The girls who bullied me in middle school and high
school. The guy from the high school football team who humiliated me in front
of our class and said I didn’t matter and sucked at life. The girl who was
supposed to be my friend and betrayed my trust. The first guy that broke my
heart. Or perhaps the ungodly Christians I’ve met who have other people convinced
they’re good people? The list could go
on. But what good would it benefit me to get revenge on any of the people
listed above? Zero. Zilch. Nada. I have the choice
to move on with my life. Revenge is an interesting concept. On one hand, the
idea of inflicting the same pain towards someone that’s hurt you may bring temporary
satisfaction, but at what cost? I don’t believe it’s worth it – even if and
when given the opportunity. On the other hand, you can forgive and let go of
whatever it was that transpired. That’s easier said than done for some more
than others. I’m not a fan of actively seeking revenge. Revenge is God’s job
and however He decides to proceed is up to Him. Because the moment myself, or
anyone else, takes vengeance into our own hands, we’re inviting unnecessary
chaos and drama into our lives. Romans 12:19
reads, “Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it
is written, it is mine to avenge; I will
repay, says the Lord. Don’t seek revenge. Turn it over to God.
As you embark on your career, I want you to know some things and stay woke about what you’ll be up against. Please understand that no matter what, you have value, and you matter. Always remember that. As progressive as this world and different workplaces may seem, every workplace has a culture. You’ll be in different places where a lot of people who don’t look like you will be in the room. But know that you belong in those rooms too. Spend some time observing and studying those spaces and learn as much as you can. There will be people you work with who will make presumptions about your competence, education, and ability to fulfill your job duties. There will be more who will think less of you because of the color of your skin and try to disqualify you the moment you make an error, mistake, or ask questions about things you may not understand. This will all feel uncomfortable and you may get insecure, feel like you’re all by yourself, and think you don’t belong there, but ride it out...