Spring-loaded to the p*ssed off position
Excuse the expression; it’s not one I normally use, especially in public. But it captures the mood of our times.
A lot of people are angry and scared, frustrated with ongoing bad news, and out of both patience and trust. They are wound tight; ready to spring on anything they perceive to be a threat or outright attack.
General problems have become deeply personal. Dark intentions are attributed to any expression that confuses. Emotional outbursts take place at least as often as measured discourse. Nothing good can come of this.
If you find yourself on the verge of exploding, take a break from life to calm down. Take a deep breath, talk to a friend, go for a walk, take a cold shower; whatever it takes to clear your mind and settle your nerves.
When you’re ready to come back, close your mouth, open your ears, and listen to what is being said, not what you think is being said, or what is ‘really intended.’ Where you have questions, ask them. If you are confused, ask for clarification. In each instance, listen with an open and curious mind, then think about what you heard before you respond to it.
There is a dangerous pattern of immediate reaction happening all around us today. When buttons get pushed, people react, often without thinking. This tends to invite additional reaction until a chain of events has unfolded that no one understands, but many regret.
Don’t go there. Unwind your spring. Take a break to find some perspective. We’ll all be better off.
Categories: CultureAbout Susan Marshall
