“It does not do to leave a live dragon out of your calculations, if you live near him.” Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit
I’ve told you before, I love the book by Tolkien, The Hobbit. It is the perfect sory of good verses evil, of perseverance in the face of difficulty, of staying the course in spite of fear, loss, adversity and gloom. It’s a story of bravery, courage, friendship and a determined pursuit of goodness.
I identify with Bilbo Baggins because he is an ordinary, peaceful guy who is suddenly sent on a perilous journey to defeat evil. I think in reality that’s what we are all called to do in this life. And, as Bilbo says,”If there’s a dragon in your neighborhood, it’s best to be aware of that and take his presence into your calculations.”
What is your dragon today? Who is the dragon in your neighborhood? Are you facing something that threatens to destroy you or hurt you or someone who is constantly making things difficult for you or those you care about? If you are facing such a beast, don’t be afraid of that person or that challenge. Get your compatriots together and stay on your path of goodness and justice, but always be aware of the power of the dragon.
Sometimes awareness is all it takes. I used to be surprised every single time my wasband did something thoughtless or hurtful or selfish. I just couldn’t believe he would do something like that. This person I had lived with and loved for more than 33 years. The person who was the father of our children. Very very slowly I began to recognize the real character of the dragons I was facing.
I learned that it was easier to stay on the high road and do the right thing myself, if I was prepared for the “dragon” in my neighborhood. We can be virtuous and trusting and still be wary and prepared for the fire and fury of the dragon in our midst.
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16 (NIV)
Facing the dragons of divorce is easier with other warriors at your side. If you haven’t already, join us in the MDRcommunity. Each of our programs include membership, or you can simply sign up for the community on its own.
