I think of Christian brothers and sisters who are not my favorite people. I am in complete agreement with them on the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus; but there are few other commonalities between us.

You might say that our personality attributes are the proverbial mix of oil and water. We don’t seem to mesh.

In God’s sense of humor, I fully expect to be their heavenly neighbors. It is a wonderful thought to know we will enjoy and love one another deeply. Purged from our corrupt bodies at death and issued sinless heavenly bodies, all human weakness will be past tense.

My question is how do I get along with these “heavenly turkeys” until we reach the garden when our imperfections will disappear?

To begin with, I probably should take a triple dose of “Humble Additive.” Not all of my opinions equal truth. Some actually fall into the category of my own preferences.

Second, to the best of my ability, I need to study our points of disconnect. Why is it we always disagree? Is it a north-south cultural issue where we approach life with a different set of values? Is it his being an artist and my wiring being more like an engineer?

I grew up in an environment when we were encouraged to speak openly. Sometimes ‘openly’ was a kinder word for ‘blunt’. Those not from my region may not be as comfortable with direct communication.

My engineer type leans more toward function and practicality than toward bright purple walls and interpreting abstract art.

Some people process and reach conclusions by talking. They may express a volume of ideas—not even they believe—in route to reaching their conclusion. In contrast, I spend time under my rock without expressing an opinion until having reached a conclusion.

If I can understand our point of disconnect, my frustration needle drops a notch.

Third, when I am in the presence of my “heavenly turkeys” I may want to be cautious about expressing my own opinions. I am not obligated to enlighten everyone who crosses my path.

Fourth, maybe I can turn on my blessing meter and be especially attentive to ways I can end our encounters with blessing their life instead of adding one more point of conflict to the history of our relationship.

Fifth, just perhaps we will both have enough other friends to where we “enjoy” limited time together.

My plan is to make up for time lost during our earthly friendship by living in the same garden neighborhood.

If I am one of your “heavenly turkeys,” I look forward to sharing a property line with you in the garden.

Stay tuned. – Gary J. Sorrells