We all start the same way - being born. However, HOW we are born and what we are born into is vastly different. Some people are born with no complications what-so-ever, some are through C-sections, some prematurely, the list can go on and on. Then take into consideration the list of "what we are born into." Some are born to two parents, some to one, some are given up for adoption, and some are abandoned. This list is also endless.
They may all be crayons but they are not the same.
We cannot know what it is like to be someone else, to "walk in their shoes" because we would have to walk in them from birth to honestly know where they come from and what they have experienced. If we did that basically, we would be them and not us, so things might not look dramatically different. Anyone can think that they would handle any given situation differently or better than another human; however, it is entirely irrelevant.
I've heard many people say regarding the current situation that the world is in that, "We are all in the same boat." We are not. We are all in the same storm. Our "boats" vary as much as our births and our childhoods. Some of us have yachts decked out with bedrooms, kitchen, bathrooms, hired help, etc. Some are in canoes, and some are in the water hanging onto a door like Leonardo DiCaprio in Titanic. No life jacket, freezing, and Kate Winslet won't move over even a smidge.
How individuals are dealing with the current situation is very personal. If each of us could take a moment to recognize this, take a breath (maybe move over a smidge), we could all get through this much more smoothly.
Be kind. Know that you may be frustrated, but the person you are about to take it out on may have cancer but has to show up to work every day to pay medical bills and keep her family afloat. Introverts may be thriving in this secluded environment, but extroverts are about to jump entirely out of their skin. Some people have lost their jobs or businesses or loved ones. This is difficult for everyone.
Take a second out of your day to recognize that and choose to be kind. As angry or frustrated as you are, take a breath. No matter which side of the aisle you stand, remember we are in the same storm, but your boat maybe a little better than the person standing next to you. Show some kindness. Lastly, if you are on the door, maybe move over a smidge and help the one hanging on by a thread.
As always,
Love Lots; Smile Often