What About Bob?: Finding Peace

Leo to Bob & Siggy: "I want some peace and quiet!"

Bob: "Okay, I'll be quiet."

Siggy: "And I'll be peace! ✌"

Every family has those movies that they watch together over and over. "What About Bob?" was one of those movies for mine. The story of a man who tried to cure others of an ailment he had himself; narcissism.

One of the pieces of psychology I find the most interesting is that when someone else does something that severely annoys you, it's likely that it's something you actually do yourself. Does it make you crazy when others complain? It could be that you are a complainer. Does it drive you up the wall when someone else controls a conversation or situation? It could be that you like to do the controlling.

Whenever I'm not sure of how to proceed in a situation, my mom always reminds me to "do what will bring you peace." Now, peace is the third fruit of the Holy Spirit which means it is rooted in God's inherent nature. Jesus himself is named the Prince of Peace, however he is not the prince of this world; the devil claims that title. This means it takes an advanced effort to overcome the turmoil we may experience here and now.

"Do what will bring you peace."

When Leo has the above conversation with Bob and Siggy, Bob had been trying to help Siggy overcome irrational fears in a loud and obnoxious (but hilarious) way. The thing that brought Bob and Siggy peace, brought nothing but disturbance to Leo, and vice versa. I think that's an important aspect to consider: what will bring you peace may cause unrest in another. That's not to say we shouldn't try to find a solution that brings peace to all parties involved, but we should not neglect ourselves or our boundaries to "people please."

"What will bring you peace may

cause unrest in another."

Recently, I told my husband about a decision I made in regard to a relationship with someone and he told me, "Whatever floats your boat... As long as it doesn't sink someone else's." I can say with certainty, however, that Leo was not concerned about not sinking Bob's boat, and Bob was oblivious to sinking Leo's.

The good news is that through baptism, we are granted different graces by God to persevere through the troubles of life. Baptism opens the door for the Holy Spirit to enter our soul, and, just like when Jesus was baptized, the dove of peace is introduced to our life. Philippians 4:6-7 even tells us, "Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

If we do this and continually seek the Holy Spirit by continuing to renew our Baptismal promise through Reconciliation, and continue to strengthen our relationship with Jesus through the reception of the Eucharist, the Spirit can speak (if we listen), and a resolution that brings peace to both parties should be attainable.

I will say, though... I'm glad neither Bob or Leo showed any indication of having been baptized, because that would've made for one boring movie. 😉