One scholar who used to read and write extensively had a problem with his left eye. He was not able to read the books with small fonts. Looking outside the glass window, he could not see properly. Several times he cleaned the glass window, but it did not help. He went to an ophthalmologist to have his eyes tested. With modern technology, the doctor was able to observe tiny membranes, likely dead cells that were floating around and obstructing vision. With laser technology, he could remove those and restore perfect vision. He could read better, observe through the window more clearly. Yes, even tiny specs could obstruct vision; no wonder larger ones, like beams, certainly distort the vision. The Lord Jesus Christ warned us to clean up our own eyes before engaging in removing the specs in the eyes of others. (Matthew 7:3-5) The Lord used a humorous way of communicating. It is not possible to have a beam or plank in the eyes. This is how exaggerated people’s opinions and attitudes towards others are.
Prejudice: It is a feeling that has no cause or reason towards someone or something based on caste, race, language, religion, or gender. One airplane passenger refused to board the flight as he learned that the pilot was a woman. Some stereotype others like: “all… language speakers are like this.” It is a dangerous sin as it is rash, harsh, unjust, and without basis.
Worst: Some have the habit of thinking of others in the worst possible manner. In their mind, others are lower in hygiene, hierarchy, education, prestige, and status.
Only faults: Many people like to talk only about the faults of others. They could have ninety-nine good things and one bad thing. People like to talk only about the bad things, ignoring others. An entire life is judged by one’s worst moment of a person.
Hidden motives: It is a habit of some to find hidden motives in every simple word and a normal act of a person.
Am I merciful in engaging with others?