Sunday, March 31, 2013

If you have nothing nice to say...


This past week I started with my first course.  Our oldest son wanted to come with me in order to be qualified for working during the summer.  When we got to the classroom, Brandon was definitely the youngest and I was definitely the only female.    As we went through the morning jumping around Alberta Pipeline Regulations, Brandon’s book seemed to be missing a page.  It turned out he had just moved too far onto the next section (easy to do with all the legal jargon).  As we were dismissed for a quick break, the guy in front of me turned around, looked me in the eyes and asked “Was it him (pointing to Brandon) who couldn’t find the page or the dumb blonde (as he pointed to me)”?   What bugged me the most wasn’t what was said, I considered the source, but rather that I didn’t know how to respond.  I felt disappointed in myself that I couldn’t even say something semi-intelligent back to defend or stand up for myself.  I really couldn`t believe someone had the nerve to say something with so little thought to someone they didn`t even know.

What makes a person believe they have a right to vocally spit out rude, inappropriate and possibly hurtful words?  Do they understand the possible harm their words may have on another?  Are they truly that self-absorbed and unaware or just plain mean and don`t care about others around them?  I’ve come to the conclusion that I couldn’t respond because I don’t have the same nastiness and disrespect for people that some do.  I was raised to respect others and am doing my best to raise my kids the same way.  Like the saying goes, treat others how you want to be treated.  Or the other, if you don't have anything nice to say keep your mouth shut!

100% on the exam, not too bad for a dumb blond!  I sure showed him!

Alana Regier
 

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