This quote has really spoken to me recently. I’ve had some people who were unkind to me in the past (who I distanced myself from as I don’t tolerate constant unkind and manipulative behavior) try to get the best of me, behaving in rude ways. Honestly…it hasn’t been easy.

As I’ve said before, I was raised on a “it doesn’t cost a penny to be kind” childhood. No matter who or what has happened, kindness should always be your first response. Easier said than done. I like to think I’ve done a pretty good job of doing so, but sometimes one just feels the need for the upper hand. Yet, that always isn’t the best road.

As my mother has taught me, you should never give anyone the benefit of the doubt. Don’t give them the power to control and influence your emotions and mindset. YOU are the only person who should have a say in how you feel and how you act. Sure, there will be some outside factors in one’s emotions, but never let anyone tell you how to feel.

Kindness isn’t always the first emotion when it comes to rudeness or someone being a jerk, but if worked towards, can become an automatic response. It’s like muscle memory…just emotional. It’s hard, but in the end it feels exhilarating.

From my personal experience, not letting someone get to you feels powering and confident. Powering as I have control over my reactions, that someone feels the need to mess with me as they can’t stand my own happiness. Confident because I know who I am and what I stand for. Their attempt at my own unhappiness just reinforces that.

When stuck in hot water, don’t be an ice cube and just fall apart. Instead, be a tea bag; slowly diffusing your own goodness to the situation until the mixture itself is wonderful and warm.