The older I get, the more things become clearer in a way my younger self wouldn't have been ready for. Even through the clarity, some of the same challenges rear their ugly heads and the emotional aspect is similar. I would have hoped hurt, anger, distrust and any number of "wrong" feelings would have waned ... but maybe that is something that will come with more time. For now, just being able to see a situation in all it's aspects helps with the reactions. Being truly able to put myself in others' position makes empathy possible. Now, that doesn't necessarily excuse the lack of confidence that leads to incorrect assumptions or any number of other false interpretations of me and my thoughts ... but I am mature enough to check myself and respond the best way I know how.
I am becoming increasingly intolerant of what I term "emotional entitlement". Used to be, it was stupidity and lack of common sense that would set me off. Now, it's the general acceptable idea that other people are responsible for my emotional comfort. No. I own my emotions, and while I will react to the world around me, I WILL NOT blame or empower anyone to affect my emotions. That's the part I can't understand about everyone wanting to make sure that everyone else is so politically correct or considerate of all biases that they are, essentially, handing over the power to others to create their emotional world. Why, WHY, would anyone want to lose the power over themselves like that? They think they are empowered by controlling others' actions, but by making such overtures, it is clear to me how easily they allow themselves to be manipulated.
So here I clarify: if you cannot accept ownership of your own emotions in ANY situation or event, you are giving power over yourself to that person or event. Period.
Sometimes it's the simple truths that carry the most power.
