Q. Kia, I’ve been feeling angry and resentful due to what are blatant injustices in my workplace. I find myself avoiding interactions with certain people, and subsequently feeling guilty of un-forgiveness. How can I feel good about myself if I mask my true feelings? What do you suggest I do to avoid these feelings of anger and resentment?
A. First, I suggest that you openly communicate your feelings to God; then ask Him to deliver you from them. Ask Him to strengthen you to not focus on what is causing your anger, but rather on His many blessings even in the midst of what has transpired in the workplace. God tells us in His Word to forgive those who trespass against us, just as He forgives our own trespasses. He also encourages us to love even our enemies. I also suggest that you think about how Jesus forgave even those who crucified Him. I assure you, if you decide to imitate our Savior’s reaction, you will find it easier to forgive those who trespass against you.
Q. Why is it, Kia, that our judicial system is so unjust? Why is it that the same crime committed by two different people can result in two different punishments? What can we do as citizens to change our system to insure equal justice for all like the Constitution states?
A. To accept the things you cannot change, and change the things you can, is a comforting position on which to stand. One of the most powerful weapons we have against injustice is PRAYER. The very familiar sayings that ‘Prayer Changes Things’. and ‘There’s power in prayer’, are indeed true. God is All Powerful, All Knowing, and Ever-present. He is in full control, and we can trust the truth that evil and wickedness will not prevail. A comforting position for you to take would be to surrender your concerns to God, and trust that in His perfect way and timing, justice will be done.
Q. What can I do to avoid the unwanted advances of a co-worker who continues to pursue me even after I’ve tried to make it clear that I’m not interested in having a romantic relationship with him?
A. Unfortunately, you don’t have the power to control anyone’s actions other than your own. You do, however, have access to some resources that can assist you in making your message clear. I suggest you let your pursuant know that if his advances continue, you will be forced to schedule a meeting with him and your supervisors for the purpose of addressing your concerns. I further suggest that you inform him of this by way of a formal letter, while keeping a copy of the letter should you need to present it to your supervisor as proof of your concern.
Do YOU have a question for Kia? She’d be happy to accept questions. They can be emailed to lailai1044@comcast.net with the subject line ASK KIA.
