As I sit here in a coffee shop
working, I can't help but overhear the women at the table next to me. I feel
sorry for them because according to their conversation, everyone in their life
is terrible.
They have not had one nice thing
to say about anyone.
They've talked about coworkers,
family, and random strangers.
All conversation has been
critical and negative.
I have also heard the phrase, or
some form of the phrase: "I'm not trying to be ugly but..."
approximately every 5th or 6th sentence.
Now I have just heard them belly
laugh over someone's mental illness. Not cool.
What first got me was that they
were complaining about a Facebook friend of theirs that frequently posts about
how much she loves her husband. Apparently, expressing your love for your
spouse is irritating and mock worthy.
At first, I found myself getting
angry. These types of conversations are what perpetuate the stereotype that
women are caddy biddies who get together with "friends" to gossip. They should know better!
Then I remembered that I have
done my fair share of venting and criticizing. Lately, I've made a conscious
effort to not be as critical. Most do not know I've made that effort because it
hasn't been obvious yet.
Why hasn't it been obvious yet?
Because I am terrible at it.
What I have also noticed is that
I have a tendency to be overly critical and gossipy when I'm in a bad mood.
This bad mood can come from not feeling well to not having enough sleep or a
circumstance that got me down.
Current circumstance: Women at
the table next to me which is resulting in me being overly critical.
Just like them.
O Lord, please help me to be less
critical and more understanding. Maybe these women are also having a bad
circumstance. When I get overheard, may my conversation not put someone in the
position of needing to be understanding. May I always be partaking in my
favorite fruit (Joy) and may it be obvious to those around me. LORD, please help me to know better.
There is quite a bit of LOUD foul language involved as well and the Mennonites just walked in. This might get entertaining now.
PS: I did get my t-shirt that has my slogan on it: Joy is my favorite fruit. My sister with Adventure and Truth Designs made me one for Christmas.
