I was recently reading an article in which a man described himself as not being a Biblical absolutionist.  He believed in Biblical principles, yet did not take every last word as law.  Regardless of whether I disagree with him or not, his use of the word absolutionist sparked some thought. 

Many of us stand on the stage of absolution in regard to volatile subjects like religion, politics, social issues, morals, family roles and ethics.  I am one who is susceptible to cross the line of conviction about a particular topic to the point of absolution.  The difference between conviction and absolution is that conviction can listen to a differing option with an open mind.  Absolution also, commonly leads to judgment. 

Absolution doesn’t allow for the “human condition” to explore the area of the gray.  Things are always black or white.  As we mature, it is the gray that often teaches us our most valuable lessons. 

As parents and Family First Entrepreneurs, our children and loved ones deserve the chance to disagree with us free of judgment and allowed the opportunity to experience the lessons and consequences of dangling a toe in the gray water.

I am a convicted man on all subjects and this is one of those blogs that I’m writing to myself. You would be right to accuse me of being an absolutionist on occasion.  Allow for the gray in your relationships.  Without it, relationships have no room for growth. 

You may agree with me, or not.  I just thought it was an interesting concept for us all to consider.