On Becoming the Bigger Person
[As a new blogger, I'm rather finding it difficult to come up with things to write about everyday. Sometimes I get lucky to find one or two topics interesting enough to blog but more often that I like, I ran out of things to say or of ways to say the things that I want.
So I decided to join The Daily Post for inspirations, ideas and suggestions of things to write. It is a movement to get bloggers to regularly (either daily or weekly) post an article on their blog. I have joined rather late since they are already on their 117th topic today, so I better get my skinny ass (and fingers) moving right?]
I admit it, I am not a very friendly person. I am rather aloof because I have trust issues and quite exacting when it comes to the people I associate with. It takes a while before I warm up to people. I choose who to call friends, who to relegate as merely acquaintances and who to stay the hell away from.
And boy, do I have a clear picture of who to avoid, which can be summarized in the list below.
- Those who like to joke about death. “You’re here? But I heard you died! We even passed a money basket around to give your family.” *cue laughter* That is just offensive! Such a joke does not even have to be directed at me to raise my hackles. It’s like wishing someone dead and telling the person himself so to his face! I dare you to try that one on me and you would definitely get a piece of my mind.
- Those who complain a lot. Hey, my life sucks as much as yours too but I don’t go around spreading the negativity because I know other people also have a lot on their plate. Whining would not make life any less difficult nor would it help solve anyone’s problems. Instead of wasting your energy, why not spend it in more productive things. You know, like finding out how you can make life more bearable for you and those around you?
- Those who lie and expect you to lie for them too. Last year, a male co-worker sent me a message asking for my help. He wanted to watch a Manny Pacquiao fight (I just don’t remember who he fought against) but his girlfriend wouldn’t let him. Just imagine my irritation when he asked me to text him and make it appear that he is wanted at the office. Seriously? Why in the would did he want to involve me with his girl issues? We were not even that close! The nerve!
But I realized that we cannot expect people to behave the way we want them. I have accepted that they don’t always react to life the way I do. I cannot control what people find funny or productive, and I cannot force them to change. That would only breed more ill feelings between me and them, which I also do not want.
What I CAN control is my reaction to them. I can choose to walk away instead of listen to whiners. I can help people lie to their loved ones or politely refuse. It is ultimately my choice.
I still avoid the people who irritate me, but I also work hard not to let them affect me or ruin my day. I am choosing to be the bigger person.
Category: My Thoughts
