The Lion and the Lamb

Not everyone is going to agree with this, but I felt like I should write it out anyway.  I was talking to a good friend of mine recently about trust.  Trust is different to each individual - and significantly different amongst cultures.  Trust is a difficult thing to gain for some and others give it freely... Some say that trust given quickly can fade rapidly, while those who have to work for the trust will remain in that trust circle till death once there.  I say that regardless, for most people, when someone is hurt, used, mistreated, or betrayed, the trust is broken.  When trust is broken, it takes a lot of time to gain it back... and sometimes is never fully restored.  I have found this to be the case regarding many relationships around me.

Trust can be tricky.

The question that was posed was sort of related to this definition of trust, in that this individual asked if they were in the wrong after feeling somewhat betrayed in the past.  Now, some will agree with my answer and others won't... fine.  You don't have to agree, but it's what I really think.  Take it for what it's worth!

There is the matter of being like the Savior.  That is what we are all here on this earth for, and should be trying to be more like Him.  So, the obvious answer is to say, "Yes.  You should forgive, forget, and just let that person have another shot in your life."  I agree...  However, that doesn't necessarily mean you need to put full faith or trust in that person again, and you definitely don't need to be their best friend.  The truth of the matter is, the Savior has been both a "lamb" and a "lion."  He has dealt with thieves, murders, adulterers, and those who betrayed Him with love and outstretched arms.  On the other hand, he overturned tables and raised His voice at the men who were defiling the temple... He become a lion because that's what was needed at the time.

Heavenly Father wants us to be loving and kind, but also smart... and sometimes, He needs or allows us to be a lion.  WE are some of the temples here on earth, and are just as important than the House of the Lord.  We need to take care of ourselves and expect others to do the same - aka: treat themselves and others with respect and extra love.  Thus, when someone has truly harmed us or our heart, we have every right to speak our mind, and then forgive.  We have every right to be cautious of future intentions of interactions and just follow what will make us happy, as well as others.  Heavenly Father wants ALL of His children to be happy - and that includes YOU.

Sometimes you need to just let things roll of your back, and be the lamb.  Other times, I fully believe that it is okay to assume the position of the lion.  I'm not saying be a complete jerk or treat others disrespectfully, but firmly standing up for yourself, others, and what you believe is completely legit.  If you listen to your intuition, your feelings, and the spirit, you'll know which role is appropriate and if you've been in the wrong.  I simply believe it's wrong to assume we always have to be lambs in each moment, when there are also needs for a lion.

*muah*

Song of the Day:  It's about time we had some more of this guy... Adam Lambert's newest song, "Better Than I Know Myself," is AMAZING!  Hope your love it as much as I do!  Enjoy!
Better Than I Know Myself by adamofficial