Today’s insight journey led me to the idea that not everyone handles things the way that we do. Though we may have preferred methods of handling things and performing certain tasks, we need to recognize the fact that not everyone shares those same preferences. For example, some people are quick to respond to messages, whereas others tend to take a little time to do so. Some people write full, explanatory e-mail messages, whereas others simply hint at specific ideas leaving one to decipher what is truly being conveyed. Some people take note of every single birthday, anniversary, and holiday, whereas others may not be as aware of those events. And so on, and so forth.
Now, there are certainly societal and cultural norms that often come into play when people determine how and when they are going to complete a task. And though, in many instances, those societal and cultural norms may be widely accepted and thought of as being inline with the practice of good etiquette, it is not good to necessarily presume that one’s decision to step outside of those societal and cultural norms is an automatic indication that they have abandoned any sense of etiquette.
It simply comes down to the fact that we are all different people with varying backgrounds, experiences, and upbringings. We all see the world through different lenses and understand things in different ways. And in many cases, the one thing that we all have in common, other than being human, is the fact that we are all different from each other.
So, my prayer is that we keep this in mind as we interact and communicate with one another, noting that the comparison of the behavior of others to societal and cultural norms, as well as our own preferences, is important, while also acknowledging the importance of extending to others a little leeway when appropriate. It may be a challenge at times, but the reward far out weighs the sacrifice. #lovebythedrop
love by the drop 