Merry-Go-Round Optional

As a child, I have special memories of a merry-go-round in a local mall. I remember the excitement that I felt as I picked out "my" horse, examining all of them carefully to see which design I liked the best. Once I chose my horse, the ride began. Oh the thrill of going up and down, and round and round to the tune of old circus music! But like all good things, it would come to an all too soon end.
 have learned that as an adult, we have opportunities to get back on a merry-go-round ride. However, the difference is that this ride has the potential to not stop and to make you dizzy; there is no joy in the "ups and downs" like there is on the merry-go-rounds of our youth. The merry-go-round that I'm referring to is friendships,relationships and interactions that take place with an individual who thrives on drama and controlling people with their emotions. I'm sure at some point, we've all known a person like that in our lives. Those people who react to absolutely everything, whether it be good or bad. Those people who will say and do things to manipulate you to feel a certain way, or to get a certain answer or response. Oh, it's not like these people are always unbearable. They have the potential of being quite lovable, somebody that we enjoy spending our time with. But before we know it, we find ourselves going round and round and round about the same things, experiencing the same negative feelings again.
I have learned that it is optional to get on this type of merry-go-round. I have also learned that it is absolutely imperative that we do whatever we can to keep God's peace, which means staying grounded in the truth of a situation. We must learn to detach from the behaviors and the reactions of others. Doing so gives us the option to ride our horse for a little bit, but be able to get off when the music and the "up and down" motions get to be too much for us to handle.
However, there is one other thing you need to know. Many times these people don't like the fact that we choose to get off the ride. In fact, they may go so far as to insult, incessantly question and badger us. But the truth is friend, deep down in their heart they wish that they too, had the courage to get off that circus ride. They are just as, if not more, tired, dizzy and sick as you. For many people, this merry-go-round ride isn't just a leisure activity or special event, it's their life. Can you imagine having a circus crazy life that goes round and round and round, and never stops? No potty breaks, no change in scenery and you see people leave, but rarely do people stay.
May you have the grace and courage to stay grounded in the truths that Jesus Christ has brought to His children. Enjoy the ride friends, but never forget that there are many choices along the way. You choose when to get on, and when to get off. Trust Him, and you're feet will hit the ground.