Out of Sight
In my newsletter this week, I want to ask if you have ever heard the phrase - out of sight, out of mind? I have always disliked this phrase and have thought a lot about the meaning behind it. Also, I have wondered why people think it is okay to use it as an excuse to justify why they disregard someone. In my line of work, I have many conversations during the course of my day. I have heard people’s concern and pain through these conversations regarding being excluded. The action to disregard can impact others in a tremendous way. Friends, co-workers and family members can all fall into this category of being disregarded which then leads to the phrase out of sight out of mind. The idea of writing off a relationship and disregarding people for one reason or another can be devastating. It is like being dropped without a second thought! The idea typically boils down to a lack of interest and care that has changed a person’s heart. But why does this happen? I feel it is because it gives people an out so they do not have to put in further work to cultivate a relationship any further. The concept is hard for me to fathom because you have to ask was the relationship built on a firm foundation or was it just superficial? Whatever leads people to put others in the category of out of sight, out of mind can be hurtful and can contribute to loneliness and isolation. The idea makes that person feel that they are not as important anymore. Here is another question - have you been on the other end of the spectrum and felt like you were the one being disregarded. How did that make you feel? I bet it did not make you feel very valued or treasured. In a similar fashion, there are several people in the Bible that also experienced this type of treatment. Some of these include: Moses, Isaiah, King David, and Jonah. At one point each of these men felt disregarded to the point they felt depressed, and lonely. They felt so broken that the only thing they knew to do was to cry out to God. In the midst of their despair and feeling abandon, they knew that God could heal their hearts and meet their needs. They knew that no matter what they were experiencing, they would find comfort in God and that is why they turned to him in their distress. When you feel disregarded, I would like to encourage you to look to the scripture below and remember people will leave you, but God will never leave or forsake you. So next time you hear out of sight, out of mind-just smile and know there is a God who values and treasures you and is constant. He will always love you unconditionally. So be encouraged and find peace. Have a great week!
Hide your loved ones in the shelter of your presence, safe beneath your hand, safe from all conspiring men. Blessed is the Lord, for he has shown me that his never-failing love protects me like the walls of a fort! I spoke too hastily when I said, “The Lord has deserted me,” for you listened to my plea and answered me.
Psalms 31:20-22
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions:
In the past, have you been one to say out of sight, out of mind in regards to others?
When in your life, have you been the person who has been disregarded?
How did this type of treatment make you feel?
What will you do going forward to maintain good relationships?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested), when you out of sight and out of mind, just remember HE “Never” forgets you!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nszKM-NF4nA