“Stop, drop, and roll.” I remember learning that in school, and although the thought of ever needing to do such a thing seemed a bit scary, at least I’d know what to do when (not if) the time arrived that I’d need to put out these inevitable flames. 

It’s funny how stuff like that lingers in the back of our minds through the years. While I no longer think I’m going to be overcome with fire, and I pray such a thing never occurs, I do believe there truly is an inevitable sort of flame most of us encounter day to day that needs extinguished upon impact before the ensuing smoke causes us to, uh hum, “choke.”

Likely, you’re wondering what on earth I’m talking about. Please, understand that I’m going somewhere with this. It’s the way I like to process and then relay my thoughts from my brain stem on through to my fingertips via pen and paper or keyboard strokes. If you’re still reading, thank you for understanding and, therefore, being patient with me. 

“Whoever is patient has great understanding…” Proverbs 14:29 (NIV). That’s the verse I read that started my contemplations and then led me to “Stop Drop & Roll”. Goodness gracious, how’d I end up there? Great question!

It occurred to me that over the years my patience has improved. Despite my hormones, extra hours gone between my feedings, or my red hair, I’ve actually become more patient. I stopped to think about what had changed. It had to do with my years-to-obtain-due-to-my-own-quirks ability to be more understanding of others.  There are also three things I find myself doing when I’m about to react negatively when someone isn’t behaving the exact way I think they should in that precise moment. It’s what I do to put out the fire of my negative thoughts before choking on the smoke of my poor response. 

STOP: I literally tell myself to stop and take a deep breath. Or two. Or three… before responding.

DROP: I determine to drop my inclination for retaliation even if it’s simply an angry look or passive aggressive sigh. I drop it all right then and there.

ROLL: As I’m still taking my deep breaths, I roll. I pivot. I pivot to take my eyes off me and on to the person causing my potential irritation. I try to understand who they are and what they may be going through. 

Amazingly, this really helps. I haven’t become perfect at it, but I am quicker to say I’m sorry when I am not patient. The Lord and His Word have taught me so much over the years. I pray this little Stop-Drop-Roll exercise helps you put out any internal fires that erupt when others strike a match within you.