June 9 – The Cost of Opposition
The best criticism of the bad is the practice of the better. Richard Rohr
Gregg’s Reflection
I’ve spent a lot of my life in opposition — opposing bad ideas, harmful behavior, broken systems. At times, taking a stand was necessary. After all, I’m an Enneagram 8 , the Challenger. But I’ve also learned that living in a posture of constant opposition takes a toll.
Robert Johnson compares opposition to a short circuit that drains our energy. I’ve felt that drain. When I stay locked in “against” mode, my focus narrows, my creativity dries up, and I start defining myself by what I resist instead of what I love. The truth is, opposition can become its own trap — the more we fight, the more the fight becomes the center of our lives.
Nondual thinking invites us to see another way. Instead of putting all our energy into resisting, we can hold the tension, listen deeply, and look for a path that honors truth on both sides. That doesn’t mean compromising on what matters — it means allowing God to show us a way forward that opposition alone can’t reveal.
When I shift from opposition to curiosity, I find space for hope. When I let go of needing to win the argument, I can focus on building something better. And when I remember that even the person I’m opposing is loved by God, the fight changes — and sometimes disappears entirely.
Scripture
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:21
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Matthew 5:9
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1
Ancient Quotes
Bear patiently with the faults of others, for you also have many.
Thomas à Kempis, The Imitation of Christ, Bk 1 Ch 16
Modern Quotes
To transfer our energy from opposition to paradox is a very large leap in evolution… Opposition drains our energy away like a hemorrhage. To transform opposition to paradox is to allow both sides of an issue to exist in equal dignity and worth.
Robert Johnson, Owning Your Own Shadow, p. 85-86
The best criticism of the bad is the practice of the better.
Richard Rohr, Eager to Love, p. 200
Journaling Prompts
- Where in your life are you locked in opposition right now?
- How is that affecting your energy, creativity, and relationships?
- What would it look like to shift from opposition to seeking a “third way”?
- How might God be inviting you to respond differently to what you resist?
👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 23 Reflection: Non-Dualistic Thinking