Everybody Has A Story

Just a short thought today.

I try to remember as I go about my days, that everyone I encounter has a story. The waitress who forgets things at the restaurant -- the rude person at the bank -- the kids who are mean to my kids. True, they might not have an excuse. But who am I to judge? I haven't walked in their shoes.

Initially, it's so easy to get upset. But I try to remember these things -- maybe they are simply having a bad day. Maybe they live in a hostile environment. Maybe they just lost a loved one. Maybe they have enormous financial stress or health issues. Who ever really knows.

One thing I've learned in life is that things aren't always as they seem on the outside.

I certainly am not trying to make excuses for the bad behavior of others. And for those that behave badly with no reason whatsoever, I think eventually, it catches up to them.

I guess I'm posting this as a reminder to myself to cut others some slack -- to remember that each of us has a story and some days are not going to be good ones. Maybe a patient and kind response to someone will be just what they need on those particularly hard days. I know I appreciate unexpected kindness -- especially on my bad days.

So that's all I've got today -- just something on my mind. Hope you all are enjoying the weekend! And if you're having a bad day -- consider yourself hugged!