art-ificial ramblings...

Monday, March 14, 2005

Portrait of Selfishness

I tossed and turned all last night. I am not one to vent on here, but considering it is my day and in light of Becky's recent post, I am going to VENT. I am going to talk about people who are oblivious to the negative consequences of their actions towards their friends. These types of people fail to be considerate of others due to their thoughtlessness. Although, I'm sure it was not willful or premeditated, it's a culmination of lack of foresight, will, and selflessness. However, I am sure it was not the first time nor the last time these shortcomings have materialized.

I will refrain from using real names, as most of you will recognize this "person" or identify with this person. He/She could be a sister, brother, cousin, friend, co-worker, a loved one or even you, the reader. The example is of a friend who was reminded weeks prior and who agreed to celebrate a certain special event tonight. However at moments notice, with circumstances out of his/her control, he/she could not attend. Nonetheless, with some forethought, this could have been remedied. Was it accidental? coincidental? purposeful? Who really knows.. but with the constant prodding weeks prior, it was easily avoidable by simply "better planning". This planning does take initiative. This initiative stem from RESPECT. In the end, it is as simple as lack of respect.

I was very hurt last night by my friend's lack of respect and caring. I couldn't sleep a wink. Am I being melodramatic? No, I don't think so. I've gone out of my way to remain friends. I have offered time and time again my friendship in which he/she took readily, but have not reciprocated. I lost respect. I have a small circle of friends. But these friends are people I can count on. We're conscious of our actions and reciprocate favors and good doings. (Mutual) Random acts of kindness builds great friendships. I don't know if I necessarily want to reach out to this person and be friends anymore. Friends don't leave you high and dry...

5 Comments:

  • I don't think you're being melodramatic at all. I think you're seeing the situation for what it really is. I'm sorry that person was a arse last night, you deserve friends better then that! People who arn't selfish about their friendship, and who want to hang out more then just when it is convenient or benefits them.

    "Randon acts of kindness builds great friendships." I like that! You couldn't be more right.

    Great post Aymiee! I hope it helped to vent these feelings.

    at 6:42 AM  

  • Thanks Sharron. (2nd time -- Blogger commenting system sucks!) Yes, I was hurt and offended. I was afraid to post this because I didn't want to be viewed as melodramatic. I'm sure others might think I am, but I now see clearly the level of friendship we have despite the fact that I've been a pivotal person in his/her life. I have close friends who go out of their way for me and reciprocate in return. It's a give and take.

    at 8:08 AM  

  • Friendships, like any relationship, should be a two-way street. And if a person isn't the type to "give," then they should be so ready to "take" when it's their turn. I think you have every right to be upset. I've had several of these people in my life, and I've finally decided to move them to the backseat b/c doing so isn't being melodramatic, it's standing up for myself.

    at 9:51 AM  

  • Here's my take....

    Sometimes in life, real life gets in the way. And you may have to bail. But the thing is--you tell the person, I want to do something with you and can we reschedule. Or better yet, you have a plan and say--I am so sorry because I know you were looking forward to this. I made plans to do such-and-such on this certain time period. That way you don't look like you're blowing the person off or being an ass. Or you at least offer to make it up to them, to go out later.

    It's all about respect..and this person isn't showing you respect.

    at 10:24 AM  

  • Michael.. yes, Thank you! Yes, rescheduling could have been an option and that would have alleviated much of the feeling of "being blown off".. You're right though, its comes down to him/her just really not respecting me. It's my fault for not recognizing this earlier. I would have saved myself the frustrations.

    at 10:52 AM  

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