Until recently, I used to judge people right off the bat. If they were acting in a certain manner, I would make assumptions. “Oh, they’re just an asshole,” “that person is just a bad person,” “they have no respect for others,” etc. Well, I’ve realized I was wrong about that. Recently, as in about 4-5 months ago, I was diagnosed with anxiety and panic disorder. Kind of sucks, really, but that’s a whole other topic I may get into later on in this blog-thingy. What’s important is that I’ve been learning. Learning about human behavior, that there may be more to someone than their outward appearance, that they may have a perfectly good reason for the way they are behaving.
While school is out for summer and winter break, I’m in California, working for a drug store chain (I shouldn’t say, especially since some bloggers have recently gotten canned for being a bit too forthcoming with their feelings about who they work for). I deal with a lot of people, obviously, on a daily basis (well, any day that I’m working, anyway). I’ve met some very charming people, humorous people, overall nice people. I’ve also had to deal with assholes, over-arrogant people and all that kind of fun stuff. Of course, when we deal with an unpleasant person, we tend to make assumptions about them and why they act like that, as I said before.
Since I’ve learned and read a lot about my disorders, I’ve gained a small but of knowledge about the human mind and the way it works. If it wasn’t for my disorders, I probably would never have come to some of the realizations that I’ve had. I’ve realized that some people act in a manner because they, too, may have issues…to a degree, anyway. That shy person in line, who maybe just mumbles responses or doesn’t respond at all, they may have their own long-term, or short-term, issues they are dealing with. Who am I to judge? I’m sure many people who have no idea as to what I’m going through have judged me and the way I’ve acted.
Some people in my life, most luckily, have given me the benefit of the doubt, they believe me when I say something is difficult for me, they’re supportive when I’m having a rough time. They don’t just assume something about me. And it’s a good feeling, I feel comfortable with those people, I don’t have to worry so much (which makes things worse for me, when I worry). It’s wonderful when someone gives you the benefit of the doubt, someone who trusts you. I’ve learned through my experiences, and I’m trying (I’m not perfect, but who is?) to do the same for others. To not jump to conclusions about someone. The little things in life.
What’s your excuse?
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