People are sometimes offended when you try to be considerate

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Wow…who knew that trying to be nice could cause some people to take offense?  I read something the other day…a person in line waiting to check out overheard the cashier talking to the elderly lady at the front of the line.  Apparently the cashier called the older woman “sweetie” and the person behind the elderly lady took offense at that.  Really?  I mean, honestly, how did the person who found this to be so offensive know whether or not the two knew one another?  Could be the older woman shopped at this store frequently and was a favorite of this cashier.  Why are people so eager to jump to conclusions?  And usually negative ones at that.

I’ve heard so many people complain about someone wishing them a nice day.  Seriously.  How can it possibly be offensive to have someone wish you well?  Okay, so that cashier at the grocery store doesn’t personally know you, but does that necessarily mean she can’t hope you have a nice day?  It’s not like she’s commanding it, she’s simply hoping the rest of your day is pleasant.  Take it in the spirit in which it’s given.  When there are so many awful things happening in the world each day, let someone’s genuine well wishes put a little brightness in your day. 

 And how nice would it be if we’d all treat one another with kindness and respect?  Can you imagine how much easier each day could be?  A simple smile and a pleasant word or two might be all that someone needs to make it through a terrible day.  Every person we come in contact with has a story, or multiple stories.  We may only see a sentence or two of that story, but we can make sure that our little part in another person’s story is positive.  My mom always said you should treat people as you’d like to be treated.  I think that’s something we need in our world now more than ever. 

Smiles are contagious. 

And now, for “the women” I work with who gave me the adorable pink purse…sorry I didn’t mention your names.  I did think about it and was concerned that you all might not want to see your names in my blog.  But now that I know differently, expect  to see yourselves mentioned frequently… Susie, Jean Ann and Diane!!  Be careful what you ask for, girls…I’m always looking for blog topics…

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