I read 2 insulting things today and I always seem to take it all so personally.
So, how do YOU not? Its so weird how I can hear a thousand wonderful things and the one negative cripples me. It’s sad really. I mean I know who I am. I know what I’m can be good at and also what I’m not so good at…
So, here are my 2 cents:-) I think it is hard NOT to be hurt when someone says mean things to you or about you. It is natural to feel the sting of hurtful words for that is what makes us human…the ability to feel, to love, and to deeply sense emotions. That being said, I always try to look for the positive. I prosecuted child abuse/neglect for over 5 years. And everyone asked me the same questions: “Isn’t that so sad and depressing? How can you do that?” And of course it was sad and depressing. There is nothing more horrific than a child suffering. But, there were also some happy things that happened. Children got adopted into loving homes, parents rehabilitated themselves and got clean and sober (and children went home thereafter). It was these happy days that made my job so worth while and it was those days, and the smile on children’s faces on those days that reminded me why I wanted to work in that field. So, as much as the painful words might sting and hurt you, try to look at all of great things going on; the thousands upon thousands of people who you have a positive impact on; the people who get through tough times listening to your music; the people who drive and fly hundreds of miles to see you perform and who set their DVR’s to record all of your tv appearances….and most importantly your loving family who appreciate and love you unconditionally. These are the people who support you. On a more personal level, my daughter was a trainette at the Trumbull, CT show (the little one with the sign) and my son got to meet you after the show. You have completely inspired my kids to follow their dreams. YOU have made an impact and put a GIANT smile on my kid’s faces….and I am sure there are countless other people who you have inspired. So, maybe being reminded of the positive impact you have on so many people will make the negative comments sting a little less.
Here’s a little story that might put a smile on your face. The other night while I was putting my daughter to sleep, she said to me, “Mom, is Pat from Train married?” I responded “Yes.” She then groaned, “Oh man, because I really want to marry him.” I then said, “Naomi, isn’t Pat a little too old for you?” She responded, “Well, Mom, ya know I am almost 6?” I said, “Yes, you are almost 6. How old do you think Pat is?” Naomi: “Ummm, 10?” I just laughed and she started giggling. So, the next time someone says hurtful things to you or about you, just think of “almost 6 years old” Naomi wanting to marry you and thinking that you are 10 years old…..that ought to put a smile on your face:-)
G’night:-)
Jill
