Celebrate your story

 

In “Do you play the comparison game,” I talk about how easy it is to compare our stories and experiences with those of others, and how we might enter into situations or relationships with preconceived and/or unrealistic expectations. Not only is this a waste of time, but it devalues what we bring to the table as far as our knowledge base, background, opinions and emotions. We also have to understand these qualities have shaped us into the unique individuals we are. Oftentimes when we make comparisons, it results in dissension, hurt feelings, low self-esteem and misunderstandings. I think it’s healthy to recognize our differences, but then we must accept and embrace them. If we approach each encounter—each connection—with fresh eyes, an open mind and a pure heart, we can focus on and appreciate the process, rather than worry about the outcome. And, at the same time, rejoice in the journeys of others while celebrating our own.

What will it take for you to celebrate ‘what is?’

Agreeing to disagree

[Image credit: digitalart]

This week I revisited an old argument with an acquaintance of mine that had me feeling like we were going in circles.  Round and round we went, beating the topic to death.  You’re not going to change my mind.  My friend said it out loud; I said it in my head.  Then I was told to pose the topic on Facebook in order to garner a general consensus from an “objective” population.  But I opted not to, because this happens to be one of those areas where our differing viewpoints simply put the two of us on different pages.  It’s because each of us are unique — with our own backgrounds, interests, knowledge-base, education, etc. — that it is impossible for us to see eye-to-eye with everyone.  As I’ve gotten older, I’ve also lost my desire for confrontation, preferring instead to agree to disagree.  Otherwise we’ll just continue talking to our respective brick walls.  Incidentally, in this particular matter I’m right.

Do you typically talk a subject to death, or agree to disagree?