Mean People...what??

Just a few not-so-gentle suggestions to those who make life a little difficult, uncomfortable and uneasy for others. If you recognize yourself here, please take heed. It will make your life so much more pleasant, as well as for those around you. Trust me on this one.

Do you tend to take your moodiness out on others? Stop it. Right now. It is rude and inconsiderate to spread your selfishness throughout your home, your workplace or to other drivers. Really, you don't have that right. And stop making others 'walk on egg shells' around you for fear of your temper or moody behavior. It is not fair and not funny...it's just plain rude.

Do you think you know best in every situation? I have news for you - you don't. Take a minute to listen to others and honestly take what they are saying under consideration. Unless you are the Almighty, there is still something you can learn, even from the opposite sex or someone older/younger than you.

Are you purposely trying to be contrary to anyone? Someone close to you or your group of friends? Stop this bad behavior immediately. This does not constitute 'loving your neighbor as yourself'. Stirring up strife just for the sake of making yourself look important or more intelligent is wrong in so many ways. Besides, it makes you look bad.

Do you only have time for others when it conveniences you? Shame on you. What makes you more important than others, anyway? Please take the time to really listen and make an effort not to make others feel like you have somewhere more important to be. This is truly so rude.

Are you overly critical of others? Why? This is making your life, and theirs, miserable. If it is only to make you feel better about yourself, why not volunteer at a homeless shelter instead? A kind word and loving appreciation goes a lot farther than your sharp criticism. I beg you to stop this behavior now.

Do you buy into the lie that one sex is smarter, better, or stronger than the other? Again, shame on you. I suggest you take a good, hard look at your life and start appreciating others for what they can contribute. It is good to remember that you had nothing to do with deciding your gender. G-d created each with equal value and worth. Get over yourself.

Are you prideful about the way you look? Please don't base your identify upon something as fleeting as beauty. And further, don't judge others for what they look like, either. How dare you. You didn't have any say in your genetics, and either did anyone else. If you are good looking, ditch the pride and thank your parents. Then appreciate the inner beauty in others for a change.

Are you abusive in your relationships? You should be ashamed. You are fortunate enough to have those in your life that love and care about you and you, in turn, make their lives fearful, miserable and painful. Stop this and beg for forgiveness immediately! Apologize for the hurt and damage you have caused and pray that they forgive you. Then spend the rest of your life trying to make it up to them. Seriously, there is no excuse for abusive behavior - be it emotional or physical.

Do you manipulate others for your gain? This is the height of selfishness and borders on witchcraft (so says Scripture). Don't do this again and go apologize if you are in the midst of doing it now. Ask for help if you need help, but don't play games with people, their emotions or their money.

Do you blame others for your mistakes? Come on...this is called 'blame shifting' and shows a serious lack of character on your part. No excuses! Own up to your mistakes, apologize if necessary, stop the lies and deceit and take responsibility for your actions. Everyone will thank you and you may earn someone's respect. Go figure.

Do you withhold love and care from those around you to feel powerful or more in control? Sick and twisted, this is. Stop this immediately. Take the time to tell those who you care about how you feel about them - they deserve it, and you may be surprised at what comes back to you.

“The capacity for getting along with our neighbor depends to a large extent on the capacity for getting along with ourselves. The self-respecting individual will try to be as tolerant of his neighbor's shortcomings as he is of his own.”

~Eric Hoffer

*This has been a public service announcement*