Tips on Tuesday: Walk a Mile in Someone's Shoes

The past few weeks, it has become more and more clear to me. I have been reconnecting with people after the holidays and some folks I haven't seen in a while. And each person, no matter how polished and cheerful they appear to be, is going through 'stuff'. What I'm learning is that everyone is going through 'stuff'...and usually it is 'BIG STUFF'. And while my BIG STUFF might seem manageable to me--I'm learning it's still big, it's still stuff and it affects my interactions with others.


I'm also learning that everyone I'm talking to is going through their own BIG STUFF and it affects them. Some react better than others. But when I find out that the person who was a little snippy with me learned that a father/mother/sister/brother is battling cancer and there are more unknowns that known, I can forgive a little easier. And when people share their stuff with me, I sometimes marvel at the fact that they are still standing. I often think that if I had to go through their stuff, I'd be crushed and couldn't cope. Yet, when I share my stuff, I often hear people tell me, "I couldn't ever do what you're doing." But here I am...doing what I do...and trying to keep myself upbeat.


I'm sure you're wondering what the point of all of this rambling is. I'm glad you asked. If each of us would accept the fact that everyone we meet is going through BIG STUFF in their life, couldn't we be a little more kind to each other. If we give out a little more grace and a little less judgement, would it be easier to get through our own BIG STUFF? 

Here's my thought for today...and tomorrow...and the day after that...