Misunderstandings

"An enemy generally says and believes what he wishes." Thomas Jefferson

Is it human nature to be offended when people don't understand us? I once knew a man who had adequate communication skills, but when someone opposed him he felt compelled to set the record straight. Numerous conversations would ensue, where the subject was revisited over and over. These talks were sometimes followed up with emails and snail mail letters. Just to make his point clear. Crystal clear. While complicated subjects may need to be gone over a second or third time, if it's simply that the other person disagrees and/or dislikes you, he already thinks what he wants. And as for gossip? What he says will likely have his own spin to it. The people who know who you are won't pay much attention, and why would those who don't know you even care?

Living your life with clarity, purpose and integrity doesn't ensure you'll never be misunderstood. Sometimes you will. Sometimes you can change that, but mostly you can't. Why waste valuable time and energy on such a frustrating distraction?

Susan