Firmin Abautiz was known as a man of serene disposition. Nobody in his town could recall his having lost his temper at any time during his 87 years. One man, who doubted the possibility that a person could be so unflappable, made a deal with a housekeeper, offering her money if she could provoke him to anger.
The housekeeper knew that Abautiz was very fond of a comfortable, orderly bed, so she neglected to make his bed one day. The next morning, Abautiz kindly reminded her of the undone chore. The next night, Abautiz again found an unmade bed and the following morning, he again called it to her attention. She made a lame excuse, which he kindly accepted.
On the third morning, Abautiz said, "You still have not made my bed; it is evident you are determined not to do it. Well, I suppose you find the job troublesome; but it is of little consequence, for I begin to be used to it already." Moved by such goodness of temper, the woman called off the deal and never again failed to make his bed as comfortable as possible.
Not everything can be the way we like it all the time, but criticism and harsh words rarely bring about a lasting and peaceful cooperation or fulfillment of our desires. Patience and kindness, on the other hand, do.
A lot of things are easier said than done. We might be inspired when reading a short text reminder, but how far can we carry it into our daily lives requires a lot of determination and consistent seeking for God's guidance as well. May all of us always remember to hold on to God's words and not be blinded by a momentary veil of anger and dissension.
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