Giving And Taking Offense + Motivating Monday

Last week I made an impulsive comment. I just threw it up on Facebook without thinking through what the implications might be. Not the best decision.  It wasn't super hurtful, but it could be perceived that I am easily offended, which I really wasn't. Or it could be perceived that I am very judgmental, which I certainly don't want to be. I really don't want to be one of those people who is quick to get emotionally wounded over tiny things that are said. Nor do I want to be that one who causes offense. It's part of what makes the world such a hard place to live.

Not taking or giving offense is a difficult line to walk, and obviously I'm still working on both. But I'm not alone! Today's politicians need more proficiency in both skills! 

Giving Offense. Apparently Donald Trump is the current poster child for this. He seems to offend people left and right. Or, is it the other folks who are too easily offended at what he is saying, when he really has nothing but the best of intentions?  You decide!

It is difficult to offer suggestions or opinions without seeming pushy, even insulting to an extent. And in today's world that can be dangerous! So learning to be skillful at not offending comes in very handy! One thing that can soften your opinion or advice is to preface your statement with, "I have found that..." or "Some people find it helpful to..."  and "I believe that..."

Taking offense and carrying it around is damaging to your health, well-being, and peace of mind. I know from personal experience that it is good to get over real and perceived offenses as soon as possible. Time spent devoted to making sure that the offender is punished is actually time wasted in our own healing process.

Strawberry Reservoir Skyline - Photo by Tawnie Archuleta

When contemplating in that split second whether or not you are going to be offended, try thinking about why the person is doing or saying things that differ with your opinion, insult you, or even hurt you. Maybe they come from a good place but the outcome is somehow less than optimal. Try appreciating the intention rather than the actual outcome. Half of the time it will help! The other half requires more work. Many times we need to first forgive ourselves of things before we can start to forgive others. But that is for another discussion!

Today is Motivating Monday!  We all need a little motivation!  I, for one, love to explore other sites for motivating, mostly non-sponsored posts, tips, pictures and videos!  If I happen to find a great one, I'll link it up and share it with you here and on Twitter via the #MotivatingMonday hashtag!  It's like being featured!  I can miss some amazing posts, but I don't want to!  So, in addition, if you'd like to link up yourself, you can do that too!  I'll visit your site, comment, promote and publicize! Don't be shy--I'm really very supportive!  Remember, any link to your posts helps your blog numbers increase!