Bad decisions, not bad people

Over the last several months, I've spent a fair amount of time contemplating my philosophy on "Bad People" verses "Bad Decisions." Although it is not fully developed, my outlook on this topic is definitely maturing with experience and time.

To put it simple, I believe that there are no "bad people", only bad decisions.

I believe that people (yourself and myself included) make mistakes everyday (no one is perfect), and have the opportunity to learn from those mistakes.

I believe that it is not my place to judge, because no matter how much I think I know, I will never know the full story. There will always be pages and chapters and perspectives missing from what I hear or witness. Judging should be left to God, the only person who knows the full scoop on each and every situation. And I thank the Lord everyday that He is merciful, understanding, unconditionally loving, and full of grace, which means even he doesn't judge. Because of Him, there is no such thing as a point of no return.

Here's a quote that I came across and absolutely love:

"Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don't judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone's weaknesses, differences, and shortcomings." I think this is said perfectly.
It is my job to be loving and accepting. Period. Sometimes people just need time to figure things out and simply being there through the midst of the craziness may be the best thing for them. You could be their saving grace. You never know what your love and kindness might result in down the road. The people with the worst pasts and presents may have the most beautiful futures.

In the Bible, there are many people--prophets and saints included--who make mistakes and head down undesired paths, but return to God in the end. Jacob was a cheater, David had an affair, Peter had a temper, Paul was a murderer, Jonah ran from God, Thomas was a doubter. In today's society, all of these men could be labeled as "bad people," right? I suppose so, yes. However, God's infinite love for his children is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in man's weakness.

In Leviticus 19:18, God says,"Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."

Well, there you go. Remember that no one is perfect, mistakes are made, it's never too late, and it's your job to show unconditional love.

And that's my story.