An oyster responds to the irritation of sand by secreting a substance similar to its iridescent pearl-like lining. In time the sand dissolves and forms a pearl – the irritant becomes a beautiful part of the oyster. Is there a message here from nature that translates to human experience?
Our humanity is the common denominator of human experience. We all sense, feel, see, hear, smell, and touch. But we vary in how we respond to what we sense, hence the exquisite distinctions one person has with another. To live peaceably, dealing with irritation is at times a formidable challenge.
Is it possible to respond to irritation like the oyster does, by exuding a response that builds beauty rather than creates adversity?
The goal is to live such that we build an inventory of appreciation for fellow humans that enables us to respond to irritants by covering the irritation with constructive human substance including love, trust, and empathy. Empathy, for example, is a choice that can lead to meeting irritation with understanding and a drive toward peace. Thich Nhat Hanh says;
The practice of peace and reconciliation is one of the most vital and artistic of human actions.
Indeed it is a matter of relationship art to create our own unique human response to the grist in the gears of our daily life.
The challenge: Turn irritation into inspiration by overcoming destructive impulses with the golden restraint of treating others like we want to be treated.