Some Scripture to Enrich Your Work Day - Part 2
We've been applying some of the counsel found in Ecclesiasticus 8 and Psalm 25 to our workday, specifically focusing on our relationships with others. Last time we focused on relationships we should avoid or at least be wary of. Today we look at a couple of relationships it would be wise to cultivate.
Let's start with good people. In my experience, when someone's clearly making an effort to lead a good life, they're easy to spot. Even humble people, working unobtrusively below the radar while producing quality work stand out, in a sense, as they do a good job without drawing attention to themselves. Maybe you work directly with someone, either on a team, or a project, that demonstrates honesty and integrity, and strives to put forth their best without ever being critical of others. When you do stumble across such people, it's a joy, isn't it? Of course, just because they're decent folks doesn't mean you pour out your soul to them. Be discreet. Maybe they're open to a more friendly relationship, maybe not. If not, respect that. But being discreet in your interactions beats having to be wary or needing to totally avoid someone.
One thing you may notice about such people is they may attract a certain amount of resentment. If someone's "too good," the crowd may get worked up. For example, if a guy doesn't want to engage in vulgar or salacious language, in some circles they become suspect. Don't join in the chorus of those who would resentfully, and unfairly, criticize them as being "holier than thou." Sure, some folks are holier than thou, but it's been my experience that a bloke who's simply trying to live a good life just rubs certain people the wrong way. I'm guessing that's because the words and actions of good people show those who wallow in sin that they need to straighten out their lives - and people really don't want to do that. On the other hand, if the good example of others somehow exposes your failings, rejoice rather than reject. They've just helped you realize you needto get right with God - or in more practical Catholic terms, get to Confession!
Let's next look at older folks with whom you may work. Apply the aphorism, "Respect your elders" in the workplace. A company run wisely will value those with years of experience on the job. Even if your company doesn't send this message, you can apply it yourself. Seek their advice and counsel. You'll find most older folks more than willing to pass on what they've learned. Of course, there are cases where experienced colleagues don't want to "give away" their "secrets," perhaps believing that their companies won't need them anymore if they do. If you meet someone like this, just find someone else who's less defensive. In any case when older, experienced people speak, but sure to listen carefully.
Of course, apply your common sense and some discretion here. There are old folks who are only interested in hanging on until they hit retirement; some are just cranky and unwilling to be open and share their experiences. Don't judge such people. Remember that none of us knows what others - especially those whom we hardly know - experience. And, given their years on this earth, old folks have experienced a LOT. Maybe a lot hasn't been all that pleasant. So pray for them. But do pay attention to those who haven't been beaten down to the point where they have nothing (or at least they feel like they have nothing) to offer.
With that we wrap up our two sessions focused on how daily reading of Scripture can enrich your work day. Using Ecclesiasticus 8, we identified people and circumstances to be wary of or outright avoid in the workplace. But we then found those who might enhance our time spent in daily labor. Associating with good people and learning from those whose age bears the marks of wisdom will help you in your struggle to lead a good life as you strive to provide a modest security and sufficiency for yourself and your family. Let's conclude with these words from Psalm 25.
I have not sat with the council of vanity; neither will I go in with the doer of unjust things. I have hated the assembly of the malignant; and with the wicked I will not sit.
I will wash my hands among the innocent; and will compass thy altar, O Lord: That I may hear the voice of thy praise; and tell of thy wondrous works. I have loved, O Lord, the beauty of thy house; and the place where thy glory dwelleth.
Take these words to heart and then take them to work today. I think it's safe to say that with such counsel and guidance you can be assured of a good and holy day at work.
Let's start with good people. In my experience, when someone's clearly making an effort to lead a good life, they're easy to spot. Even humble people, working unobtrusively below the radar while producing quality work stand out, in a sense, as they do a good job without drawing attention to themselves. Maybe you work directly with someone, either on a team, or a project, that demonstrates honesty and integrity, and strives to put forth their best without ever being critical of others. When you do stumble across such people, it's a joy, isn't it? Of course, just because they're decent folks doesn't mean you pour out your soul to them. Be discreet. Maybe they're open to a more friendly relationship, maybe not. If not, respect that. But being discreet in your interactions beats having to be wary or needing to totally avoid someone.
One thing you may notice about such people is they may attract a certain amount of resentment. If someone's "too good," the crowd may get worked up. For example, if a guy doesn't want to engage in vulgar or salacious language, in some circles they become suspect. Don't join in the chorus of those who would resentfully, and unfairly, criticize them as being "holier than thou." Sure, some folks are holier than thou, but it's been my experience that a bloke who's simply trying to live a good life just rubs certain people the wrong way. I'm guessing that's because the words and actions of good people show those who wallow in sin that they need to straighten out their lives - and people really don't want to do that. On the other hand, if the good example of others somehow exposes your failings, rejoice rather than reject. They've just helped you realize you needto get right with God - or in more practical Catholic terms, get to Confession!
Let's next look at older folks with whom you may work. Apply the aphorism, "Respect your elders" in the workplace. A company run wisely will value those with years of experience on the job. Even if your company doesn't send this message, you can apply it yourself. Seek their advice and counsel. You'll find most older folks more than willing to pass on what they've learned. Of course, there are cases where experienced colleagues don't want to "give away" their "secrets," perhaps believing that their companies won't need them anymore if they do. If you meet someone like this, just find someone else who's less defensive. In any case when older, experienced people speak, but sure to listen carefully.
Of course, apply your common sense and some discretion here. There are old folks who are only interested in hanging on until they hit retirement; some are just cranky and unwilling to be open and share their experiences. Don't judge such people. Remember that none of us knows what others - especially those whom we hardly know - experience. And, given their years on this earth, old folks have experienced a LOT. Maybe a lot hasn't been all that pleasant. So pray for them. But do pay attention to those who haven't been beaten down to the point where they have nothing (or at least they feel like they have nothing) to offer.
With that we wrap up our two sessions focused on how daily reading of Scripture can enrich your work day. Using Ecclesiasticus 8, we identified people and circumstances to be wary of or outright avoid in the workplace. But we then found those who might enhance our time spent in daily labor. Associating with good people and learning from those whose age bears the marks of wisdom will help you in your struggle to lead a good life as you strive to provide a modest security and sufficiency for yourself and your family. Let's conclude with these words from Psalm 25.
I have not sat with the council of vanity; neither will I go in with the doer of unjust things. I have hated the assembly of the malignant; and with the wicked I will not sit.
I will wash my hands among the innocent; and will compass thy altar, O Lord: That I may hear the voice of thy praise; and tell of thy wondrous works. I have loved, O Lord, the beauty of thy house; and the place where thy glory dwelleth.
Take these words to heart and then take them to work today. I think it's safe to say that with such counsel and guidance you can be assured of a good and holy day at work.
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