Think on These Things

I browsed Facebook this morning as I often do. I seriously considered closing my account. Harsh words were sent my way. Presidential candidates appeared on every other post, Supporters touted their candidate while often discrediting and disrespecting those who disagreed with them. Supporters even threatened violence. Poll watchers vowed to be ominously present to intimidate voters. Some people even predicted literal bloodshed after the election. And then there were missing children, reports of sexual assaults, abused animals . . . I could go on and on.

I use Facebook to keep in touch with friends. I enjoy hearing about their lives. But these days, I cannot get beyond the negativity. It makes me want to close my eyes, to disengage completely.

I think the lesson here for me is to take care of my soul and to withdraw from all activities and people who harm my spirit and my heart. It’s not bad advice, to seek those things that uplift us and give us life and to avoid all that sucks the life out of us.

I have always been an engaged person, so the answer for me is not to disengage. But it is to be selective and to focus on the things that nurture my soul. Engaged but not absorbed.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

– Philippians 4:8