Words I Don't Say

I remember a ride out I did several years ago. It was a strange call where somebody from out of state said their daughter was in danger in an abusive relationship, so APD went to investigate. From what I could observe, it seemed the daughter was not in danger and the situation was some sort of on-going family dispute where the parents didn’t like the boyfriend. The daughter seemed fine and explained the situation, but the boyfriend must have had enough harassment from her parents, because he took his frustration out on the officers (verbally). Once he got going, his girlfriend, whom the officers were just trying to check on and/or help, joined in. I do not know how the officer I was riding with kept such a cool head and did not respond.
   
As we got back in the car, I asked the officer about how he stayed so calm. He said it comes with the job, he doesn’t always do it that well, but he tries to give people the benefit of the doubt because he does not know what all people are dealing with, tries to not take it personally and do what he has to do. I know that is what is required of you on your job, but I was impressed because this guy not only did his job, he just didn’t get upset.
   
That day was not the only time I have seen an officer refuse to be provoked, but something about the peace the officer had driving away from that call stuck with me.  What if I put as much effort into not taking things so personally, giving people the benefit of the doubt when I don’t know all they are dealing with and try not to take it personally? What would that do for my marriage? In our family’s dynamic? For my friends?
   
My prayer for you this week is that you are successful in not being provoked on the job (may it bug the snot out of those trying to provoke you!) May you also be provoked less outside of work and may your relationships be stronger and richer for it. 

Your service is appreciated,
Pastor Rob