The other day I found myself introduced into the middle of a relationship conflict between a young married couple. Now, those who know me know I abhor most conflict and its’ associated drama (also violence and many of the Seven Deadly Sins…but, I digress), but I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to be an impartial sympathetic ear to each person involved.

The nice thing about it was I got to hear both sides of the situation. The bad news was I couldn’t be an arbiter as each person approached me separately at separate times without their spouse present and each made me promise to keep their confidence. However, thanks to the Observer Effect I could at least influence the situation slightly simply by being there.

And after listening to each side describe the same situation the Quote of the Day came to mind:

“13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and [selfish ambition] in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and [selfish ambition] exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
- Saint James the Apostle, New King James Bible (NKJV), James 3:13-18

Upon reflecting on what each side admitted I have no doubt their marriage is doomed, as a little further checking behind the scenes revealed one seems to have Earthly Wisdom while the other doesn’t (or they could just be naive). And, it’s a shame the other doesn’t know it’s already doomed: It’s going to be a tough lesson which I hope doesn’t result in their losing their wisdom from above.

Thanks for Reading!