Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful – Psalm 1:1
A defining moment for Caroline Ingalls occurred during another noteworthy episode of Netflix’s adaptation of Little House on the Prairie. It happened after she learned that Emily Henderson, the general store owner whom she had invited to a women’s society meeting, had been denied membership. The reason given to Caroline was that Emily did not meet the requirements because she was unmarried. Disagreeing with the group’s discriminatory behavior against independent women, Caroline walked out and was later seen showing her support by sitting and engaging in fellowship with the rejected Emily.
Sometimes the loudest message is delivered calmly. This is what I interpreted from Caroline’s actions. Caroline didn’t yell, only voiced her disagreement, then showed it by leaving to demonstrate her belief that every woman, married or unmarried, should be considered an important part of the town’s society. Hence, she conveyed her principles the right way. It aligns not only with Psalm 1:1, but she also conducted herself pursuant to Proverbs 15:1, which says: “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
When the principles we seek to stand for encompass kindness and equality for all people, our behavior should represent them. And the Bible provides plenty of guidance and examples; the most important one is Jesus. His stand was always the right way.