Granted, I was wearing one of my favorite (and most inexpensive, I might add - i.e., the uber-exclusive Tar-jay was the designer) outfits. But, doggone it, if you can't feel happy when you are wearing a skirt covered in polka-dots, then obviously you need to see someone.
Plus the sun was shining (always makes me happy), the breeze was warm (ditto) and my errands were done - ensuring that I could go straight home after work. Why wouldn't I be smiling?
Obviously, I had passed a woman who was having a "Bad Day." Because after mulling over her initial statement, along with the barely caught "mumble, mumble...guess you didn't think it could be horrible...mumble, mumble" I have determined that this woman judged a book by it's cover.
This week I wore the exact same outfit (most likely for the last time this season as it's getting far too chilly) and received a far different response. This time I was approached by another older woman who informed me that I was "looking mighty pretty today." Obviously, this woman was having a MUCH better day than the other one.
And the result?
Well, obviously it is apparent how much your attitude can affect other people. The first woman had me stewing over how DARE she judge me? She had NO idea what I have been through in the past few years. And how DARE she judge me for appreciating the little things in life - like my very favorite polka-dot skirt and the fabulous weather? And what business is it of hers whether or not I have to use coupons? And just where does she get off in trying to ruin someone else's day?
Her attitude actually had me questioning whether or not I should wear my very favorite skirt the next week. Yes, her judgment was still affecting me over a week later.
Obviously, I mentally flipped her off and chose the skirt again and was rewarded with kind words this time.
I realize that people have bad days - hell, I've been known to experience one or two or a thousand myself - but generally, I try to keep my bad days to myself and not spread the poison around too much..unless it's directed at poor drivers. They deserve it.
It's too bad that this isn't everyone's philosophy. Apparently, some people ascribe to the "share the bitterness" philosophy. What a shame.
One woman looks at another and takes umbrage that this one takes care in her daily appearance while out and about, so she throws barbs. Another woman looks at the same person - appreciates what she sees, and takes the time to note her approval.
I know which person I'd rather be.
And the result?
Well, obviously it is apparent how much your attitude can affect other people. The first woman had me stewing over how DARE she judge me? She had NO idea what I have been through in the past few years. And how DARE she judge me for appreciating the little things in life - like my very favorite polka-dot skirt and the fabulous weather? And what business is it of hers whether or not I have to use coupons? And just where does she get off in trying to ruin someone else's day?
Her attitude actually had me questioning whether or not I should wear my very favorite skirt the next week. Yes, her judgment was still affecting me over a week later.
Obviously, I mentally flipped her off and chose the skirt again and was rewarded with kind words this time.
I realize that people have bad days - hell, I've been known to experience one or two or a thousand myself - but generally, I try to keep my bad days to myself and not spread the poison around too much..unless it's directed at poor drivers. They deserve it.
It's too bad that this isn't everyone's philosophy. Apparently, some people ascribe to the "share the bitterness" philosophy. What a shame.
One woman looks at another and takes umbrage that this one takes care in her daily appearance while out and about, so she throws barbs. Another woman looks at the same person - appreciates what she sees, and takes the time to note her approval.
I know which person I'd rather be.
Me too! Very discerning person, that last one. She has good taste, very good taste! :-)
ReplyDeleteWhat the heck did how you look have to do with coupons??? The best way to HAVE money, is to SAVE money. More money saved, more money for polka dot skirts.
ReplyDeleteI hate people like that. I know... we should send her through the double McDonald's drive thru, have them screw up her order, then make her pay for our order... then honk the horn as she's driving under the bridge to go home so that the birds get scared and poop on her car...
ReplyDelete...clearly, I also harbor some resentment towards this type of people... I may need therapy.