I don't count myself as a particularly unforgiving person. I don't go out of my way to be bitter, bear grudges or keep tallies. But I am a sensitive person {ok, my husband will say ultra sensitive} - I do get hurt, I do get offended, I do have a very fragile heart; when things like that happen, I do shut off a little. I do not ever be rude {as I teach my daughter not be rude, even to bullies}, but I am definitely more wary and no longer as friendly or open with the person, perhaps because I am subconsciously afraid of being hurt again.
My husband however, couldn't be more different.
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While I still say hi with a smile to my neighbours when I see them, I no longer go out of my way to stop and have a cuppa or a half hour chat. My husband however, still has long friendly chats with them, even offers to go over and help have a look at their leaking toilet, still offers to help with this and that.... the other night, my husband even invited them over for dinner and said I would cook a nice meal for them.
I didn't protest it. But truth be told, I wasn't jumping for joy either.
Especially since the day before the dinner, my neighbor {the guy} said something really racist {he did add, "no offence, haha"} And I was supposed to cook for them?
Despite his flaws and the little things that annoy, one thing I love, admire and really respect about my husband is his big heart. He said he was offended at my neighbour's comment but he also said my neighbor obviously isn't a very sensitive person {in view of all the run-ins we have had} but he means no harm.
I did a tacos meal and when they came over and I was so surprised because... it actually went really... well. Actually, it was... lovely. The kids played together, we chatted at the table for a few hours. I even did an unplanned chocolate cake dessert just because I wanted to pamper my guests and let them go home {next door} happy and full. I'm glad that we gave it a chance {ok, more like my husband... but I'm glad the dinner did happen and go so well}.
I'm so glad that my daughter seems to have inherited my husband's big-heartedness. You know how some kids sulk for hours cause you reprimanded them? My daughter is the opposite. You could lecture her about losing her things again and getting in trouble at school.... she'll have her sad face on but in a few minutes, she'll stop when she's walking past, give you a cuddle and say "I love you" which I always think is so sweet.
I wouldn't label myself an unforgiving person but I do think there is room for improvement. I also do like reflecting and working on issues by being aware of them. And I'm blessed that the people to learn from... are right in my family.
Is there something in particular that you admire/want to learn from/respect in your other half?
Linking up with Essentially Jess for IBOT!
