This episode discusses the concept of "when two worlds collide", referring to brief interactions between people where their lives intersect. Jennie uses the metaphor of two lines on a graph that meet at a single point to illustrate this.
She argues that in those moments of intersection, we should:
• Refrain from making that moment a "sticking point" that alters our course. Others' behavior in that moment is informed by their whole life up to that point, so it likely has little to do with us. Making it a "sticking point" risks judging them unfairly.
• Avoid judging others based on that brief interaction. We don't know their full story and life experiences that shaped them. Judging them is unlikely to be accurate or fair given our limited perspective.
This applies not just to others, but to ourselves as well. When we don't act as we'd like, we shouldn't make it a moment that defines us. We should show ourselves compassion, as our behavior is also shaped by our past experiences.
The key lessons are to not judge in those moments of intersection, but instead to show love, grace, and compassion to both others and ourselves. Brief interactions should not become defining for us or for others. Giving grace allows us to move past those moments without bitterness or self-condemnation.
Jennie encourages missionaries to apply this perspective with their companions and investigators. Rather than judge them based on first impressions, missionaries should remember that others have lived full lives before their paths crossed. Showing grace and compassion will allow missionaries to build stronger relationships and have a more positive mission experience.
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