As of the start of this writing, what I’m feeling is disappointment. I trust by the time I post it I will feel differently. The last couple of days though, whole other story.
Earlier this week, my son was rear ended by a teenager obviously not paying attention. Fortunately no one was hurt. This story should end right here, because what else should matter? Except that like with most incidents, there are consequences to deal with. In this instance, getting our vehicle repaired. To that end, my husband and I chose to play nice (as we would hope others would do for us) in an effort to save the other teen from the wrath of license points and higher insurance, and agreed to work out an arrangement between the adults for the auto repairs. Within minutes a deal was reached verbally and in writing and everyone went on their merry way. Worked out for all. Or so I thought.
I won’t get into details so as not to crank myself up again, but suffice it to say the events that followed have put a dent (no pun intended) in my willingness to trust another’s word (at least for the time being). What ever happened to accountability and responsibility? A good reminder that life is a constant lesson. I live and learn.
Despite the turn this eventful week took, I feel good about our initial choice to help another and even better about our actions thereafter. Surely, I’m still bothered by the whole thing (honestly, up until last night I was kind of mad and frustrated….grrrrr!….that kind), but that passed. I can’t say the same about my being disappointed. I’m still feeling that, although that’s passing too.
After all, in the grand scheme of things, I realize this mostly is a matter of inconvenience. We have to take the time and spend the money to replace the damaged part on the truck, while my cousin’s husband patiently, eagerly, and faithfully awaits a new heart to replace the damaged one in his body.
‘Nuff said.
“I thank Thee first because I was never robbed before;
second, because although they took my purse they did not take my life;
third, because although they took my all, it was not much; and fourth
because it was I who was robbed, and not I who robbed.”
~Matthew Henry
“It all depends on how we look at things, and not on how things are
in themselves. The least of things with a meaning is worth more in life
than the greatest of things without it.”
~Carl Jung
Connie,
Completely in agreement… sad, but true… Also natural to be frustrated, especially regarding our kids. Steph was on her first fender bender a few months ago, when she hit someone from behind, so it was her fault. Our car got a microscopic dent, the person’s car got a little dent, Steph hit them while in a traffic jam (low speed). They hired a lawyer and sued for injuries… Even Geico told me that this was a non-injury accident when they saw the pictures of both vehicles. I was relieved that Steph and her friend were unharmed, but very angry with the opportunists in the other car. I just don’t understand.
By the way… a Blessed New Year and keep up the good work!
Panchi
So unnecessary, you know?
Anyway, thanks Panchi, the best to you and yours!
My Dear Connie:
After reading your account of recent events in your life, I was suddenly relieved to hear that there are other people who have been experiencing that same “disappointment” in human behavior. I, too, have been shocked and dismayed over the last 4 weeks over two incidents that involved people who were supposed to be my “friends,” but unfortunately, they chose to show that “dark” side of their personalities, which ultimately resulted in a feeling of despondency on my part, but more importantly (as you expressed), I was extremely disappointed. I think that “disappointment” in someone has a much greater impact than pure anger. I am, by nature, a very sensitive person and when someone whom I have trusted for many years, suddenly decides to stab me in the proverbial back, I am not only affected mentally, but physically, as well. After I absorb the initial shock of it all and try to shake the feeling that the rug has been pulled out from underneath me, I have learned to step back and analyze the situation in great depth. I try to understand the origin of their behavior and it usually stems from their present circumstances, or even the way they have been treated by other people. However, I almost always come to the conclusion that there is really never any excuse for someone to be abusive to another.
I think what I am trying to say to you is that everyone is a “work in progress” on this earth. Some people learn faster than others, but there are so many people who have a long way to go before they reach the point of accountability, responsibility, fair play, and the unselfish act of helping one another in their time of need. I truly believe that no one gets through this life unscathed and that opportunities are constantly presenting themselves that will teach us to grow in a spiritual manner and to understand the true value of life without greed, selfishness, and arrogance. I think we are all innately “trusting” by nature, but whenever that trust is chipped away by a few unscrupulous people, we tend to build a wall of defense and are not so quick to trust again. I believe a good rule of thumb is to always see the “good” in people and if they make a detour off the path, always keep your dignity and show them by example that they need to reform their ways.
Sorry for the dissertation – – you just struck a nerve!
Joyce
As always – – lovely talking to you!!! Keep the faith, my friend – people eventually come around and see the light – – hopefully, when it’s not too late! But, not your problem!!
Thanks,
Joyce
Thank our Father in Heaven, your son is fine. Really have GOT to start reading this during the week, instead of waiting until the weekend. I am sorry you are dealing with people with zip integrity, it is a plague in today’s society, where accountability and responsibility along with morals (they are all part of the same package) seem to have been thrown out the window. I am surrounded by that on a daily basis, it is wearing on the spirit. Reading Joyce’s spot-on “dissertation” I found myself talking to her, going “Yep, you are oh so right.” I have lost trust in some friends, family, sometimes it seems like everyone has an “angle.” But, you know, it’s friends like you that restore my faith in humanity time and time again. Your family is in my prayers. Be safe, amiga.
Thank you Barbie for your continued prayers and friendship. xoxo.