Thoughts and Perspectives From the Mind of a Common Girl
Photo credit: https://pixabay.com/photos/happiness-back-side-woman-young-824419/
I once had a friend who I loved completely. Probably more than I even should’ve. But the thing is, they weren’t there to give, but to take instead. And they took a lot from me. The last straw was when they plagiarized some of my work. And rather than make things right, and give me credit in their book, they decided to instead tell me that I should feel honored for what they did, and they couldn’t guarantee that they wouldn’t do it again.
Needless to say, we are no longer friends, and after looking them up on social media, I proceeded to block every online place I could think of that they might be. In doing so, I discovered just how unashamed they were for their actions because they are out there promoting their book, taking full credit for something that isn’t entirely theirs. I honestly couldn’t believe what I was seeing because I trusted this person for five years, and we were as close as friends could be. But apparently, some people have no regard for others, and they just want to stomp on anyone who gets in their way. I’m quite sure this person will likely steal from me again, and so I’m not sure what I will do if that happens. It’s bad enough when random strangers steal your work, but it’s a whole different story when it’s someone you were once really close too.
Anyway, it’s just good to finally be done with this person and to never have to hear from them again. I think the worst part is that my trust has been broken, and that’s something that is very difficult to get back once it’s taken from you. But I’m moving on, and I’m literally doing so, as I’m just about to move several states away from where I currently am. It’s freeing to know that I’ll soon be starting over, and I guess it’s good I’m not dragging along any drama with me when I go. I’m really excited about what’s ahead, and I think this new, exciting change is just what I need.
Photo credit: https://pixabay.com/photos/move-key-new-apartment-catchment-2481718/
It feels like we’re heading into a new normal. I’ve been on vacation, and as I watch my girls play in the pool, I wonder how long it will be, before even this sort of activity is no longer allowed. It’s sort of a scary thought. Everything we’ve known for such a long time is suddenly changing. Is this our new reality? Everything is closing; people are in a panic at the stores to buy basic necessities. The malls, movie theaters, restaurants, and sports facilities have all become like ghost towns. We never prepared ourselves for such things. And now I feel like one of the few who isn’t ready for the next wave of whatever is coming.
I’m not worried about the virus. I’m healthy for my age, and my girls are young enough that this won’t likely hinder them at all. But what I am worried about is the bigger picture ― the mass chaos, the wars which could break out, and the ones that already are. And I’m concerned that people will foolishly do things to harm other people. This world is already a scary place sometimes, but this seems to go beyond anything I’ve ever known or seen. The real threat isn’t the virus, but instead the human response to the virus, this is what scares me the most, and this is what I fear will be our biggest downfall.
*I got to go to a symphony last night. The theme was a Scottish fantasy, which featured Brahms, Symphony No. 2 in D major. This picture was taken before everyone was actually there, but you can see still several musicians tuning their instruments. It was quite a lovely night and I was lucky enough to get free tickets to the event.
One thing this year has taught me is that I’m better off without people in my life who only want to say hurtful things about others. This is one reason I decided to leave social media last year, and I haven’t regretted my decision for a second. We all have our flaws and nobody is better than anyone else. Each of us has our own ideas and opinions and that makes us all unique and beautiful in our own way. An old rule I’m forever trying to follow is, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” I think this is the first thing any of us should be asking ourselves before we say anything. We need to bring back unity into the world, and it’s so easy to do that when we spread kindness. These are just my thoughts for the day. I hope everyone is enjoying the beginning of the new year. Let’s try to make it a positive one! Much love to all of you! ~M xo
P.S. I’ve been without WiFi for the majority of the past three weeks, which has made it difficult to respond to comments and read posts. I will try my best to respond and catch up with all of you as soon as I can. 😉
Putting My Feet in the Dirt 