This week, I've spent a lot of time dealing with unexpected financial bombshells, some from faceless entities far away, some motivated by personal animosity very close to home, and no, I don't mean spouse or family. I've listened to rusty-hinged grating rude voices on the phone, experienced sophisticated manipulative behavior and general nastiness.
The lightbulb moment today was that the most recent assault propelled me into a place where I didn't crumble or fight. The person was a complete stranger who seemed to take in instantaneous disliking to me. She has that right. I don't need everyone to love or like me, because the ones that do are plenty. In any event, after 10 minutes or so of pointless friction, I thanked the person for her time and stayed true to what I thought was the right course of action. If I had not been in that uncomfortable place, I would not have found the strong, gentle core inside. Thank you, teacher.