Skip to main content

Resolution of Kindness



As with all other humans faced with the prospect of a fresh start, I have been trying to figure out my resolutions for 2013 (and beyond, for that matter).  I do not usually like to call them resolutions, but rather positive habits.  This past weekend I was the direct recipient of very hateful and hurtful words.  This event, along with the recent school shooting in Connecticut, brought to light what everyone's resolutions should include. 



I was at an intersection in a parking lot and started to move into the intersection, making a left turn.  This woman abruptly turned in front of me, but I was able to stop in plenty of time, avoiding a collision.  It was at this point the ugliness ensued.  At first, she used the F*** word, which does not really offend me, but what followed, really shook me to my core.  After I tried to utter an apology, she shouted out her window, "You fat, ugly whore."  What would possess a woman to call another woman whom she did not know a fat, ugly whore?



Shaken from those words, I had to park my car and release my emotions.  Her words were very hurtful, especially for someone that struggles with her weight every day.  I am a grounded, strong, and confident woman, but at that moment, I felt abused.  What gave this woman the right to hurt me so deeply?  Although I said I was sorry, she still felt the need to unleash all her hatred for life on me at that moment.  It was at this point I began to pray for her.  She obviously needs forgiveness and blessings, because if she were at peace, I would not be writing this piece.



We all need to slow down (I will be the first to admit this is difficult) and practice being more kind to one another.  When certain instances occur causing you to be angry and hurt, take a breath, work through the feelings, and react with positivity.  I resolve to practice more kindness, and find more forgiveness and blessings for those that need it.  It will not be easy, but this world could use a bit more kindness and tolerance.  A kind act could even save a life.  Will you join me to help make the world a kinder place?

by Resident Writer Gwendolyn D'Amico
jerseycats@hotmail.com
Labels:

Comments

  1. KathieJanuary 7, 2013 at 3:51 PM

    It is sonething I try to practice as well so I will join you. Im sorry that happened to you - it's horrifying that one human can speak to another that way. You're taking the high road!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Gwendolyn D'AmicoJanuary 7, 2013 at 4:37 PM

    Thank you, Kathie! Together we will be the change and hopefully pass it on to the next generation.

    ReplyDelete
  3. GottaLoveMomJanuary 7, 2013 at 7:08 PM

    It's appalling that with the violence that populated the news outlets in the past few months, that people won't have the consideration and the decency to think twice before saying anything hurtful.
    I totally agree with teaching our children to be kind, polite, respectful and considerate.
    Great post, Gwen. Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  4. UnknownJanuary 7, 2013 at 8:14 PM

    I applaud your take on this situation; very few people would have reacted with such kindness. And I guess that's your point in some ways, that too few of us are willing to be calm during stressful situations and manage kindness instead of anger. I've had a similar situation and I found it equally upsetting. You're right, though, that these people are in need of our prayers that they can find peace in their lives because their hate is their greatest enemy. I'm so sorry that she hurt you. You are an amazing woman and if she knew you she would know that her words couldn't be farther from the truth. <3

    ReplyDelete
  5. AnneJanuary 8, 2013 at 5:43 AM

    I agree, we all need to be kind to one another every single day of our life. That one incident was hurtful but I'm proud of you - you turned it around and used it to be more intentional about being kind. The heavens must be smiling at you right now...

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Completed my first 16 Week IsaBody Challenge: Believe You Have A Purpose

My family is what matters most to me.  I’m 51 and a mother of 4 (ages 14 – 26). I wanted to be healthier, more active and stronger not just for me, but for the people I love.  I wanted to set an example for my family that we each possess the tools to master our wellness and vitality. I've always been petite except when I was pregnant ( when I gained an average of 50 pounds per pregnancy - 4 times!) Over the years I had tried various diet and exercise regimens, and I did enjoy a degree of success, but the results were not to the level I hoped for, and they were somewhat short lived.   Achieving stable, long-lasting results proved stubbornly elusive.    Then when I hit menopause everything became more difficult.    My body stopped cooperating altogether, and I was constantly grumpy. My waist and hips expanded and I found myself napping in the afternoons.    I started to accept the idea that there would be this new, less vibrant version of me. I just completed my P
Post a Comment
Read more

SPICE-up a young child's development: social, physical, intellectual, creative and emotional

Children are the precious gems of a family. When they’re young and innocent, they are like sponges that willingly and quickly absorb any knowledge and emotion. That’s why at an early age, we encourage our children to read, be creative, be happy and feed their curiosity. With all the technology and instant gratification that children get from playing video or computer games, asking a child to read a good book has been a challenge for some parents .     “Your children are not your children.       They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.       They come through you but not from you,       And though they are with you, and yet they belong not to you.       You may give them your love but not your thoughts,        For they have their own thoughts.        You may house their bodies but not their souls,        For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,        which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.” -                     Kahlil Gibr
5 comments
Read more

Immigration and Family: Will my mom ever get to see my daughter walk down the aisle

Last year when my father passed away in the Philippines, I went home and took some time to visit the U.S. Embassy in Manila to ask what the options are for my mother to return to the U.S. The consul reminded me of the 10-year travel ban. That on or after November 8, 2015 — not earlier – or 10 years after my mom, was deported in 2005 for overstaying her visa, I can email the U.S. Embassy and inquire about my mother’s approved petition. I asked if I need to file another petition, and she informed me I didn’t have to. I asked if I could… and she stopped me and said to ask everything on or after November 8, 2015. This is where I am, and where my thoughts are drifting as I celebrate this month my 16th American birthday. I am counting the months, the weeks and the days. My daughter is getting married in January 2016 and I would love to have my entire family, especially my mother, to be here when that momentous occasion happens.
1 comment
Read more

Helping others surpass their goals and expectations

"It's not about the end goal. It's who you become by consistently pushing to the edge of your limits." - Robin Sharma Do you ever wonder why you stumble on new things?  Do you ever wonder why unsuspecting strangers cross your path? Do you ever wonder why your mind takes you to a direction you didn't think exist? I was walking to StarBucks to meet my husband when I noticed a sign...
Post a Comment
Read more

Still shaky, skidded in snow, but so blessed my guardian angels are looking after me!

"Never again wonder, what to be thankful for..."   - Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life It’s yet another snowy day in New Jersey. Beautiful, yes but dangerous! In line with my goal for this month is to get back on schedule. I got up around 4am to get my 15yo ready for his Model United Nations conference. (Thankful that our neighbor offered to drive him to school by 5:30am ) I got my 9yo ready for school and I'm thankful that my other neighbor offered to drive him to school. I then drove my husband to the train station to Manhattan. I decided to stop by the Community Center and decided to run a fast 5K on the treadmill. I was 1 mile short because I was so sweaty and hot. (Note to self: dress lightly next time) While cooling down inside the car, I read Day 14’s chapter of Rick Warren's the “Purpose Driven Life” book. I felt really good because it just reminded me that there is always something to be thankful for no matter how awful yo
5 comments
Read more