You don't need a Xanax to keep from biting off someone's ear.

Today is January 26, 2017.   My son is obsessed with Trump jokes.  The internet pulse from the aftermath of the election is almost palpable.  The discord is real.  On the news last week two guys got into a political (Trump) argument and one guy bit off the other guys ear . . .  Right here in Pittsburgh.
Actually I think that is kind of symbolic.  We are not listening to each other, just waiting to interrupt.

This Sunday, the gospel is the "beatitudes" or Matthew Chapter Five.  How appropriate!  The beatitudes give us a sort of pattern for our lives.  None of which include taunting or biting (or grabbing).    All of which include living in a way that is Christ-like.  Why?   Because that is the path that we need to follow in order to be blessed or in modern translation HAPPY.  Who doesn't want to be happy?   We chase down a cornucopia of self help trends promising happiness but ignore the one that is 2,000 years old.   Jesus says, "Try this. . it really works!."  We say, "um I'd rather see what Ellen or Dr. Oz has to say."

Anxiety is at an all time high amongst teenagers.(According to the October 27 edition of Time Magazine).  Church attendance is at an all time low.   I see an inverse correlation.  If teens are not being taught how to be happy from the Bible, then who are they being taught this learned skill from?  Their peers?  TV?  Netflix?  Their parents?  This Sunday,  take out your ear buds, turn off your screen and get your butt to church.   Don't just sit there and daydream and look at your watch.  Listen.   Journal what each beatitude means to you.   Not sure?   Ask.
Overall they are about doing the right things for the right reasons.  Seeking peace and treating others with respect.  Still not sure. . . google them.  Even if you can only take one beatitude at a time and absorb it, live it then own it.  That is a great start.  You don't need a Xanax to keep from biting off someone's ear, you just need to be a peacemaker.