Mars and Venus

Some people proclaim that family unity has become fragmented in today’s society by the simple fact that women by the score have become career oriented and the “two working parents” model has become the norm rather than the exception.

Well, there certainly has been a paradigm shift when it comes to the family unit. But can it really be simplified to this one common belief? I’ll give you my take on it (like you could even stop me…)

It is true that more women have entered the work force. Many by choice, but perhaps many more out of simple financial necessity. I don’t agree with the extreme views that women should be “just like” men. Equal in opportunities, in pay, in respect yes…but God made us inherently different—physically and emotionally—and there is just no arguing that point as far as I’m concerned.

What I would like to comment on now is my view on a woman’s place in society. The simple truth is that, yes, there has been a transformation within the family unit due to both parents working. What galls me, though, is the accusing tone of people stating a woman’s place is at home…the old “keep ‘em barefoot and pregnant” mentality. Men have certain innate strengths and characteristics that God has designed for specific purposes. Women, too, have certain innate strengths and characteristics that God has designed for specific purposes. A woman does not relinquish her inborn domestic abilities simply because she tends to a paying job throughout the day. On the contrary, my observances show most women have an uncanny knack for carrying out both functions with stunning proficiency.

God has designed us all to coexist by providing different aptitudes. Male and female aptitudes differ, but are not exclusive. What comes easily and more natural to a man is because of God’s design. The same is true for women. This does not mean, however, there cannot be any cross-over for learning skills in either direction. Women can become physically stronger, develop the “hunter” attitude which men have more instinctually; Men can learn to express emotions and develop the “caretaker” qualities which come so easily to women.

Let me put this all in a more personal context. If we are to only partake in life with our strongest skill sets (e.g. women having a stronger domestic forte, therefore she should stay at home) many of us would not enjoy life as it was meant to be enjoyed. One of my passions is music; specifically writing both lyrics and melody. It’s certainly not my strongest suit…even perhaps way down on the list of skills. Does that mean I should forego pursuing it? Heavens no! I can enjoy incorporating it into my life along with other talents and abilities. This is how a life can become a full life: by utilizing what you are good at and, at the same time, learning new things which touch your heart and bring you joy.

And so it is with everyone in society. Men and women are different, but perfectly compatible by utilizing what they are good at, while at the same time learning new things for domestic reasons, financial reasons, or simply because it brings them joy.

Does God look upon His creation—both Mars and Venus—and smile? I know He does.

Greg Morton
© October 2010

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The Tell-Tale Heart

No…this isn’t a re-write of the famous Edgar Allan Poe story. This is actually a revelation that came upon me the other morning while driving to work; after I found myself getting angry at every driver on the road that wasn’t driving like me. What’s that all about? Well, that is exactly what led to this self-realization.

Although a tell-tale has numerous definitions, depending on its use, this is one of my favorites that I can relate to. I used to go sailing out of Marina Del Rey and thoroughly enjoyed learning the sport. One of the important pieces of equipment on any sailboat is a tell-tale…a little piece of ribbon or fabric which shows you which way the apparent wind is flowing and to what degree. This not only allows you to “see” what is happening, it enables you to make any corrective actions if necessary.

So what is my tell-tale? My anger. There are numerous Bible passages which speak of anger, but I think James 1: 19, 20 sums it up pretty well, “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.”

When I become angry I need to take note that it’s not just unhealthy with all that churning inside, it’s also a tell-tale that I’ve made something else more important than God. I realize that may seem to be a strange correlation, but this is what was revealed to me. Life will throw at you all kinds of things: unfairness, mean people, calamities…yes, even bad drivers. Granted, there are times a righteous anger is appropriate; as when Jesus saw the temple of the Lord being desecrated by vendors. This, however, is not the anger I deal with on a daily basis. I find myself placing way too much importance and emphasis on “things going right” when I should be focusing on what really matters…my own spiritual walk. I need to be more centered on this and all the blessings God has provided me.

Does God really care if a driver tailgates me or cuts me off on the road? He cares in the personal sense but, bottom line, He would much rather me calmly remove myself from the situation instead of getting all heated up over it.

Of course, there are many tell-tales in life revealing what our actions are really made of. Anger is just one of mine, and they are different for each individual. Pray that God will reveal your tell-tales to you so you can know when you’re veering astray from His will. A more satisfying walk with your Creator may be just that simple.

Blessings!

Greg Morton
© September 2010

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