I think it’s been long enough that I’m somewhat over what happened. Somewhat. But, I’m convince we can all be better, hopefully learn something and be better for it.
There was a situation where someone was being vicious, in a public way, to a dear friend of mine. It was hurtful, and I was angry numerous times throughout the ordeal. It was immature, thoughtless and unkind. I did my best to ignore it, but it was still painful in some unexpected ways.
Unhappiness breeds unkindness.
I feel sorry for people like this. I think there are those who are inherently unhappy, and they can’t help but poison others around them. What’s worse is when people you least expect to play along don’t speak up. The fact is, we are all grownups, have our issues in the past, and now we make our own choices. Just because your mother didn’t hug you enough, doesn’t make it OK for you to be a troll. Make a better choice.
What I’d really like to say is “screw you mean people”. But hey, what I’m trying to do here is learn from this experience and spin in it in a positive way. Do you know what I mean?
Where’s the lesson?
I think in situations like this, there is always something to learn. Maybe that’s how I deal with things like this… so be it. So, as I look back on this unsettling experience, here’s what I learned, and the life lessons I choose to carry forward:
1. If I want to say something, say it to someone’s face, eyeball to eyeball. Don’t post it on the internet.
2. Don’t assume. Ask questions, have a conversation. I might be surprised.
3. Use your manners. Anonymity is not a cover for meanness. What would my mother think?
Brandie Kajino is an author, speaker and entreprenuer. She has been a small business owner since 2005, began blogging in 2006, and has hosted three podcasts. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and son, enjoying coffee and good conversation whenever possible. 
