It occurred to me recently that perhaps one of the most damaging opponents of progression in my life is indifference. The are a variety of contexts in which this word can be used; I refer to it in its apathetic form.
Other folks have also noticed the insidious nature of indifference. Prominent social and political commentator of the 18th century, Edmund Burke is attributed with observing indifference with,
“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.“
In October of 1986 Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel stated,
“The opposite of love is not hate, it’s indifference.
The opposite of art is not ugliness, it’s indifference.
The opposite of faith is not heresy, it’s indifference.
And the opposite of life is not death, it’s indifference.”
I can be indifferent about just about anything; my personal appearance, committments I have made, the plight of others…the list goes on. The problem I see with indifference is that it is virtually devoid of emotion, whilst leaving me with full capacity to reason – a catotonic state. This means I am able to understand that my indifferent attitude or response is wholly inappropriate, but that I do not care enough to change direction. In short, I am without excuse.
So how do I beat indifference? I like this:
Pro 25:15 MSG Patient persistence pierces through indifference; gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses.
In context the above verse is talking about indifference from others toward us – patient persistence is the advice. I think the same technique might be effective against myself. Another word for this patient self persistence is discipline.
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