Sadly, I've seen this in so many forums. In those in which we are each hopefully seeking to understand Ma'at and exemplify Ma'at, it is particularly sad to see discussions blow up into bitter disagreements. Calm disagreements would be one thing, because then we can "agree to disagree'. But too often, things can spiral into situations which are not calm.

And then places which had formerly been safe havens turn into places in which we don't feel safe to present our views, for fear someone will take umbrage.

How can we proceed? Perhaps it's only the wisdom of Netjer that can get us through. In my fifty-six years, I've grown more stubborn and less 'thin-skinned', (never mind the physical skin!), through the years. At once, both a pride and a humility balance themselves within me.

I don't feel the need to be right as much as I used to. I know the journey of my life is a process, and I will make mistakes along the way. I used to be ashamed of the mistakes, but now that I understand they're an inevitable part of the process, I humbly admit: "There be mistakes here!" Maybe tomorrow I will see what mistakes I'm making today, and maybe I never will see them.

I don't care so much what others think of me as I used to. Perhaps it's the strength of Set that has helped in this transformation. (Well, I'm fairly sure it has! :) ) And that's where the pride comes in. To be out there, and to be open about ourselves and our views does take a "brass pair".

And yet I wish to be peaceful, to sow the seed of peace and not of discord, wherever I go. That peace has to be at first within me. Having made peace with my flaws, (not that I wish to be complacent, for it is part of the quest for self improvement to work on them), but to be relaxed with the fact they exist, I can feel more mellow overall.

If I am at peace, then I can send forth 'peaceful vibes'. Even if my words fail, most people of good heart will recognize my peaceful intentions. And thereby I can employ 'healing heka' where ever I go.

What about the suspicious people? The people who are ever so ready to find fault with what I say and what I do? Perhaps it's a blessed part of growing older, but I don't care what they think any more.

My life is a process. I just try to do the best I can. That's all anyone can do.

After I thought I was finished with this screed, I came across this little gem, "Let the world say you are crazy, then you are free to do what you want." (HPLYRIKS.COM):

Perhaps that's the source of freedom! Let 'em think what they want!