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Blogs by Jean Sheldon
Survival of the Considerate 7/2/2007 6:17:48 AM
There are some advantages to growing older, although when I was seventeen or eighteen, I doubt I would have believed that. Then, I was convinced that everyone knew how horribly shy and awkward I felt. Now, I know, few people pay that much attention to you. Then, I thought people were aware of how limited my wardrobe was and how often I wore the same clothes. Now, I know that people are much more concerned with their own attire. That’s nice, and it’s freeing. They should teach that course in high school.
Of course, there are disadvantages to growing older, but I won’t list them. Those of you who are, know, and those of you who aren’t, don’t want to know.
I’ve always told myself I didn’t want to become cranky and mean. Some days that takes a little effort, but mostly, I find myself at peace much of the time. That is not something that comes easily when you’re young. At least it didn’t for me.
Anger and meanness live within all of us, just as kindness and caring do. The path of your life depends on what you choose to use and the support you have in that choice. There is an old Native American story about a grandmother having a conversation with her granddaughter.
“Granddaughter, I have two wolves that fight inside of me,” the elder told her. “One is filled with anger, greed and fear, and the other with kindness, love, and sharing.”
