By Chip Sekulich, TwelveStone Health Chaplain
Serving as a Chaplain at TwelveStone, with the privilege of visiting our Infusion Centers and Corporate location, has been an eye-opening experience. I’ve had the chance to interact with some of the most remarkable people—our staff and leadership—who pour their hearts into getting it right every day. Yet, like any workplace, we encounter challenges: people problems and, at times, problem people. What I’ve come to realize, though, is that these difficulties often stem from something deeper—pain, weariness, sorrow, grief, or brokenness. As the saying goes, “Hurt people hurt people.”
This isn’t about excusing rudeness or justifying poor behavior. Rather, it’s a reminder that behind every sharp word or frustrating encounter, there’s often a story of struggle. I’ve seen it firsthand: patients grappling with illness, families carrying unspoken burdens, or staff navigating their own personal storms. It’s not always easy to respond with kindness when faced with these challenges—our first instinct might be to push back or withdraw. But what if we chose to be nice instead?
Jesus offers us a powerful lens for understanding this. In Matthew 15:18-19, He says, “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.” He doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of human brokenness or excuse the harm we can cause. Yet, He also shows us the source: a heart in turmoil. Knowing this, Jesus didn’t turn away from people—He loved them. Even those who crucified Him received His compassion. While we’re not Jesus, we can still reflect His love in our own small ways, especially when dealing with difficult people or situations. How? By choosing to be nice, even when it’s hard.
I’ll admit, I’ve been on the other side of this equation too. There have been times when my own stress, exhaustion, or pain made me less patient than I should’ve been. Maybe you’ve been there as well—snapping at a coworker, brushing off a question, or letting frustration spill over. We’ve all been the “problem person” at some point. Recognizing this humbles me and fuels my resolve to do better. With God’s help, I want to be intentional about kindness, especially when I know someone else is wrestling with their own “stuff.”
This isn’t a call to ignore wrongdoing or let boundaries crumble—it’s an invitation to see people through a lens of grace.
At TwelveStone, we’re surrounded by opportunities to practice this every day, whether with patients, colleagues, or even ourselves. And if you’re struggling—with this or anything else—I’m here. Whether you need to talk, pray, or just vent, reach out to me in person, by email, Teams, or at (615) 278-3109. Any personal prayer requests or conversations will stay confidential. It’d be an honor to walk alongside you. Let’s keep choosing kindness, together.
