"When did people become so insecure that they take offense at pretty much everything? I've noticed a huge shift. Compliments given by strangers are now considered an insult or an attack against their feelings. A mom is insulted, a woman with a pretty hairstyle is offended, someone with a nice outfit is annoyed. You look nice today is taken as saying she looks bad the rest of the week."
"Because I am a single mom, people often ask what happened to cause my divorce. I just laugh and tell the truth that I was young and dumb and everyone always laughs in agreement. This has started some very funny conversations, and it has also started conversations with women who are struggling in their own marriages and need someone to talk to."
"Do I get insulted, and say, Oh my gosh, how dare she intrude in my life struggles? No. I say, Thank you and you know, I've had it so long I don't remember where I bought it. Compliment given, compliment accepted. My faith keeps me motivated to be happy and kind to others. Here's a final thought: If you use your time and energy to be happy and kind to others, you won't have the time to look for insults where no insult exists."
Taking offense at benign remarks has become common, with many interpreting compliments as insults or personal attacks. Casual praises about hairstyle, outfit, or appearance are often read as criticisms or implications of prior neglect. Some people respond graciously to compliments, using them to spark friendly conversations and provide support to others facing marital or financial struggles. Buying secondhand clothing and modest disclosures can invite connection rather than judgment. Practicing gratitude, kindness, and presuming goodwill reduces the tendency to seek insults and helps counter loneliness. Exceptions include overtly sexual or salacious remarks, which can justifiably offend.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]