I wish I could say my instinct has always been to turn the other cheek when I have been wronged, insulted, or challenged. Growing up with a chip on my shoulder and an “if it is to be, it is up to me” mentality served me well in many ways, but it also made mercy feel too much like weakness. My competitive nature and pride still get the better of me more often than I would like, though less than they once did. We are all works in progress, but strength is not found in making people pay for every offense. Having the power to demand justice and choosing mercy instead requires restraint, courage, and strong character. It may also give someone the grace they need to become better. When the choice is yours, slow down long enough to see mercy as an option.