It seems that everywhere we turn these days, there are people claiming that they’re ‘offended‘ about something or other. In fact, I’ve personally grown to detest the word ‘offended’, but that’s just me. Still, I have two observations about this sadly popular phenomenon.
#1: Being “Offended” Is Used As A Weapon
The idea is that if I am offended, YOU are supposed to change your behavior. Somehow, your behavior is unacceptable and you should change your actions, your manner of speaking, your ideas, or whatever so as not to upset me. This is Bullying 101. If you don’t believe this, look around the Internet. You will find strident demands for change from angry people.
Anyone Who Is ‘Offended’ Is Being Victimized – By Themself!
I recently read about a woman who went nuts about a song being played at Whole Foods. Really? She’s going to allow a piece of music to send her into a rage? Wow, what a life she must lead. The way I see it is if I am offended by something you did, I must look to myself, not you. I don’t choose to allow other people (must less a song) to what kind of day I will have.
I am responsible for my emotions – and no one else!
Are You ‘Offended’ By This Blog Post?
If so, once again you have two choices:
* You can be offended by me, Sydney Johnston, for calling you a bully. You can rant about what an idiot I am and you can swear never to come to BlissPlan again.
* Or, you can ask yourself a question: what is there about this that I find annoying? How can I release my annoyance and anger so that I’m unbothered by the ideas of others? Because that is the way to REAL power!
And by the way, if you call me names I will not be upset in any way. That’s because I’ve learned how to release negative emotions and I choose to see every upset on my part as a golden opportunity to practice letting go. I choose peace every time. What about you?
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