Brenda’s Blog – December 27, 2022
Three older, single women stood in the local Ace Hardware store depending on the kindness of the sales specialist.
The coming Arctic freeze sent all of us individually to prepare our houses. One lady was buying large bags of rock salt for her driveway “so she can get out if it freezes.” No precipitation is in the forecast, but she will be ready. She was sure days of thick ice were on the way.
The second lady, smiled and said, “I grew up in South Texas. We bought a winter coat and then wore it for 40 years! She was buying faucet covers because all her neighbors told her to do so.
The gentleman patiently guided us, but added, “I knew every faucet cover would be gone by this afternoon, so I bought mine when I came in before work.”
What did I buy? Faucet covers, of course. I am sure there are other preparations I should make, but this is all I can manage.
As I left I thought – “It is all a matter of perspective.” One woman was preparing for the second ice age; one thought this was “much ado about nothing,” and I knew I had to do something (even if I didn’t know exactly how to do it).
Aren’t most situations like that? We bring experience, emotions, abilities, and energy with us as we make decisions. We make assessments and judgments based on these elements. So many times we obstinately hold on failing to see perspective is personal. In any situation we owe others the grace to acknowledge their perspective and consider it as a possibility.