You Just Don't Know...

Have you ever been on the receiving end of a conversation where someone is, for lack of a better term, “letting you have it” for no apparent reason? Maybe you’ve been driving down the freeway and another car intentionally cuts you off as you try to merge into your lane, following it up with a dirty look or a waving finger?

I doubt anyone can say no to either of these scenarios. In most cases we find ourselves personally offended with thoughts like “how rude” or “what a jerk,” and that may be the right assessment. But now, turn these scenarios around. Honestly ask yourself if you have ever been the one to lose your temper with someone who just happens to be in the right place at the right time to receive your frustration, or if you unknowingly cut someone off while driving. I will publically acknowledge that yes, I have done both, and more often than I would like to admit. 

Recently, I have decided to give myself a much needed attitude adjustment in situations just like these. Why? Because the truth is, I just don’t know what is going on with the other person. As the old saying goes, you can’t judge a book by its cover or in my case, assume someone is rude because they are doing something that offends me.

I don’t have to look very far beyond my circle of friends and family to know that some of them are going through difficult times: loss of a loved one, financial difficulties, marriage challenges. It could be a myriad of tribulations making life feel like an uphill battle. In these times, they may be short-tempered or they may cut off people on the freeway because they are simply focused on other things. These are good people who just happen to be in a tough spot. Sometimes that person is us. 

In line with my post last week about being a blessing, I wanted to add one more step. Consider starting your day by assuming that most people have good intentions. While some may offend us, and in some cases cause undue harm, it usually isn’t personal. Sometimes what we see on the outside is not a true reflection of who people truly are on the inside.

Comments

[Ben Ferguson]

I agree Susan. We let too many insignificant unpleasant experiences alter are attitude and we have to consciously look for the positive in life.

[Cliff Cannon]

Yes, the point is we don't know if someone is behind the scenes going through a divorce, abuse, pain from an accident, etc. Once you realize that whatever you do will make impact (no matter how small), it changes your perspective.

Think about the grocery clerk getting blasted by an unhappy customer. If I, as one of the next in line, can make impact, wouldn't I want it to be positive.

How many lives can I change today, simply by not letting others influence my positive attitude, but rather influencing them.

Thanks.