On life (97) – ”I’m Not That Cruel” – 23/10/2015

   Someone wrote, “Nowadays, if you ask a stone to become a human being, it will answer, ‘Sorry, I am not that cruel!” How hard the times when others are cruel to you are! Cruelty has many forms. Cruel people may use harsh words or negligence. They might abandon others at time of need, or hurt them physically. Cruelty is totally rejected for it is a type of murder, though man is not penalized for it. Gibran Khalil Gibran says, “A murderer is penalized, whereas who kills the spirit remains unknown.” Yet, God sees both, and will reward each according to his deeds: “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you–and even more.” This is God’s justice. Yet, He gives man chances to abandon cruelty.

Reasons of Cruelty

   There are many reasons why man is cruel: Either that he went through hard situations, such as harshness of a parent or both. In effect, he decides to be cruel to others.

   There are also misconceptions which invade man’s mind through unwise associates. Hence, he mixes cruelty with other attributes like firmness or guidance, without understanding their correct meaning and limits. Moreover, a person might abide by his friends faulty opinion that his cruelty testifies to his strength, in like manner Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, who was asked by the people to be kind. Yet, having taken his unwise friends’ opinion, he treated the people cruelly. Thus, the kingdom was divided, and only one tribe and a half followed him.

Cruel Words

   Cruel words are quite painful, though there is no legal penalty for them. They kill sweet things within the listener’s heart. Mostly, cruel words occur when man is angry. So, if you are agitated, beware your words. Do not accuse or insult anybody. Do not make any decisions, lest you regret them later. Some people say, “When you are angry break anything except people’s hearts. Words are so harsh that they might kill confidence, hope, or other things that can never be restored.” Also, remember, if life is cruel to you, be merciful unto others. Whoever undergoes pain should help others avoid it, abiding by mercy which will help him before God on doomsday.

General Bishop

Head of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center