My last Sandy’s Wisdom talked about the ocean/fresh water idea in a relationship. As I was typing, it occurred to me there are other instances in which the title sentence can be applied.
Anything as well as anyone who presents a moment which you get upset because you would like it to be different, is more about you than the situation. People are who they are. Some make changes in how they walk in the world, some deepen their fears and become more difficult for you. You cannot expect the world to change to accommodate you! (probably a good idea to read that again!)
Your grandchildren don’t want to be with you any more; they are into their friends and activities. This is what happens when kids grow up; to feel hurt or angry is a waste of your time. You are going to the ocean and expecting it to be fresh water!
A friend is always late. You’ve told her it’s annoying, and she continues her behavior. Salt water/fresh water; she isn’t going to change so tell her the meeting time is 15 minutes earlier than it is. Change who you ask to things.
Her behavior can’t be expected to change to accommodate you.
I want people to understand how difficult it is to get old. Health and ability to do things is an obvious answer. Not being included in conversations, never asked to tell one of our life stories, not asked to do things…..easy to judge and complain…..easier to say, “Not fresh water!”
Being hurt because people don’t give you the emotional support you want is playing victim to something that is not likely to change. My support comes from God; I talk to Him when I feel alone. That choice has kept me alive….literally!
Find your path and make it easier by not going to the ocean and expecting it to be fresh water.
Please share with friends and family.
Scott A. McDaniel photo
