Selective Amnesia
written by Terry - December 21st, 2010 at 5:56 pm
Generosity of Spirit
“Happiness is good health and a bad memory.” – Ingrid Bergman
A message from Terry: As this busy year winds toward its end, it seems like we have a million things to remember. As the final days count down, we’re torn between the desire to contemplate visions of sugar plums and the pressing need to grapple with the year’s final ‘To Do’ lists. And looming ever larger is the approach of New Year’s Eve, with those pesky self-improvement resolutions that we feel compelled to make.
This year, as you struggle to remember all the things you need to do and all the vows you mean to make, I’d like to suggest one more thing for you to try – forgetfulness!
Don’t get me wrong. It’s important to be responsible. A reliable memory is essential. People count on you, and your work is important. There are places you need to be, and tasks you need to perform. You need to think clearly and recall accurately in order to fulfill those responsibilities.
But when it comes to interpersonal relationships with your co-workers and patients, sometimes the most constructive gift you can contribute is a little selective amnesia. The last two weeks of the year can be a pressure cooker. So for the next two weeks, if someone speaks or acts hastily, says something rude or fails to acknowledge your contribution, don’t hug that lapse to your heart and nourish it. Let it go. Let yourself forget.
Let it be your little year-end gift to a stressed-out world.
December 22nd, 2010 at 7:04 am
Thank you. Much needed insight for this time of year. You’re Great!
December 22nd, 2010 at 10:26 am
Greet someone objectively. Is that It?
Treat them as if it/they/ he/she/ were You?
Give them the benefit of the doubt?
Try thinking that they are upset about something,s else and are stressed.
Don’t take it personally. AAha
Yup I remember that!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all. Sincerely, Schelley and Ken