A New Level

At times it’s easy to let our emotions get the best of us and lash out (by us, I mean me).  I made the mistake (I now realize) of posting a hate filled blog about someone I know, pointing out all the things I didn’t like about this person.  Originally, I had no plans on posting this rant, just wanted to get it out through my writing.  I should’ve just deleted it when I was finished, but I left it on my laptop.  I also didn’t listen to my instincts, which I usually do, that told me not to make these feelings public.

I’m unsure of my reasons for even posting it.  Actually, that’s not true.  It wasn’t so much to point a finger at one person in particular, but more to show what I stand for.  Realizing this I removed the blog and decided I should write something more positive about things that are important to me.  I don’t like to be angry and don’t want to put negative vibes out there.  So, sorry to those of you who had the misfortune of reading that message.

Besides the obvious things that are important for most people; family, friends, health, etc…the thing that is most important to me is treating others with dignity.  You will go through your life not agreeing with others about their beliefs or the way they look at the world.  You don’t have to like it, or even respect it, but accept the fact that we are all entitled to our own beliefs (even the person who was the subject of my rant).  I need to start listening to my own advice.  The advice where I tell people to not let their emotions (the crazy ones) guide them and make choices when they’re irate.

Two of the reasons I got upset with this person are; they said homeless were “losers” and said something derogatory about Hispanics (I wasn’t present for the latter).  I was filled with rage, especially about the Hispanic remarks (for those who know me know why) and allowed this persons opinions to affect me.  Not cool!  The simple fact that I don’t have an iota of respect for this person should have been a good reason not to allow their comments to make any impression on me.

Listen, it’s okay to get mad at somebody.  You don’t always have to be even keeled and laid back.  It’s also good to stand for something!  But, it’s not good to turn into a raving lunatic when someone else doesn’t share your same views.  Like when my mom starts a sentence with, “On Fox News this morning…” or when my brother in law goes goose hunting.  I’ve learned to bite my lip in certain situations.  It makes for a much more pleasant atmosphere.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m still going to be me and I’ll call somebody out on certain things.

I’ve come to terms that all I can do is be the best person I can be.  That includes first and foremost being the greatest mother.  Also, a good daughter, sister, friend.  I recognize every day how fortunate I am to have the family I do and friends that are patient with me with all of my idiosyncrasies.  Because of these reasons, it’s important to me to give back to whomever I can in this world.

Not all of us grow up with two loving parents and not want for basic things like food and clothes.  Not everyone is encouraged in their lives and has someone to tell them they can accomplish anything they put their mind to.  Not everyone can hold their head up high knowing that they have made good decisions in their lives.  For these reasons, I feel that those of us who are able need to help those who are not able to help themselves.  The absolute greatest gift you can give someone else is fostering self reliance (think Jesus and fish).  And it’s the gift that keeps on giving.

I know it’s hard at times to not get wrapped up in your own problems or busy schedules.  I know sometimes when you see someone pan-handling you think, “I’m not giving that person my hard earned money.”  I know that some people are fearful of things that are new to them or afraid of things they don’t understand.  I’ve been there.  Here’s what’s amazing though; if you get out of your comfort zone a whole new world opens up for you.  You see a bigger picture and you reach a new level of consciousness.  And the best part is you appreciate more all that you have in this life.